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State Sen. Kathy Marchione announces retirement
David Lombardo is reporting for the Times Union state Sen. Kathy Marchione announced April 25, she will not seek re-election in November. The 63-year-old Halfmoon Republican told the Saratoga County Republican Committee this would be her last year in office. Marchione was first elected to the state Senate in 2012, following a victory in the Republican primary against incumbent Roy McDonald. Previously, she served as Saratoga County clerk and Halfmoon town supervisor. Marchione said in a statement it was a difficult decision to make, but believes this is the right time to retire. She said that her role as primary caregiver for her mother contributed to the decision. As a member of the state Senate, Marchione was an outspoken opponent of gun control legislation, a critic of business regulations, a voice for conservatism and an advocate for the region's horse racing and tourism industries. The list of possible Republican successors include Saratoga County Clerk Craig Hayner, Nassau town Supervisor David Fleming and Rensselaer County Legislator Harry Tutunjian [tah-TUN-gin]. Ghent resident Koethi [COE-thee] Zan, a Democrat, previously created a campaign account to run for the seat. New York's 43rd Senate District includes Columbia County and parts of Saratoga, Rensselaer and Washington counties. Read the full story in the Times Union.