Editor, Gazette-Journal:

After much thought and consideration, I have decided not to seek reelection in the newly drawn Senate District 20. I did not come to this decision easily, but I believe it is the right one for my family and for me at this time.

It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve in the General Assembly, first as a Delegate and, for the past decade, as the Senator from Accomack. I’m deeply proud of what we’ve accomplished over the past many years together; I am grateful to every person who has supported me and those who have worked alongside my office, my campaigns and me towards the common goal of a better commonwealth for all Virginians. I am especially thankful to my Chief of Staff Jessie Williams Reynolds, and to all my staff, volunteers and local committee members who have given so much of their time and energy in public service to our district and our commonwealth. Moreover, I am thankful to my son, John Zadoc, and my partner, Wendy, for their constant and...