James Gormley is reporting for The Legislative Gazette state Senate Minority Leader John Flanagan announced Wed., Mar. 25, he will not run for re-election. "For almost thirty-four years I have enjoyed the privilege, honor and distinction of serving as an elected official in the New York State Legislature. The opportunity to serve the public for virtually all of my adult life has enriched every aspect of my life, and so it is a with a heavy but extremely proud heart that I announce today that I will not be seeking re-election to the New York State Senate. The wide array of emotions I am experiencing in making this decision are balanced by knowing that I am making the best decision for me and for my family," Flanagan said in a statement. Republican Flanagan represents New York's 2nd Senate District, which includes Smithtown and portions of Brookhaven and Huntington in Suffolk County. He has served nine terms in the state Senate, and previously for eight terms in the state Assembly. Read Flanagan's full statement at LegislativeGazette [dot] com.