State Rep. Stephen Barrar (R-160)
Long-time State Representative Stephen Barrar announced Tuesday that he will not seek reelection for a 13th term in 2020.
Barrar, a Republican, represents the 160th District which covers an area from the Kennett Square area east into Delaware County.
He managed to hold off Democrat Anton Andrew by about 800 votes in 2018. With Andrew running again in 2020 — and Barrar out — Andrew would seem to be favored to flip the seat in 2020, although it is unclear who will run for the GOP.
Barrar let his constituents know in a letter:
“It is bittersweet to announce my intentions to retire from the General Assembly at the end of my term in November of 2020 and I will not run for another term as a member in the General Assembly.
On Dec 1, 2019, I will begin my 24th year in the Legislature, a job I have loved since being elected in 1996. This has been the opportunity of a lifetime, and I hope I have represented you well and to the best of my ability. It is not easy to leave, I have always loved this job, but after 24 years, I feel it is time to step down.
Over the years I have spent a lot of time away from my family. I want to spend more time together, also I have been dealing with some serious health issues that have led to my decision to retire.
As the representative for the 160th District, I have tried to always be there for my constituents. I am proud to say that in 24 years in office, I have only missed four session days. You elected me to do this job for you and I have tirelessly been on the job representing you. I will truly miss the people I have been serving for all these years. The people of this district will always remain in my heart and I have made so many lifelong friends. I hope I have made you proud!!!
Over the years, I have worked on dozens of important pieces legislation while serving as the House Chairman of the Veteran Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee for the past 10 years. I have also served on the House Appropriations Committee for 10 years. As many of you know, veterans and first responders have been my passion and in this upcoming year, I hope to get many of the bills over the finish line.
Since my first day in office, I have worked with so many incredible people in my district office and in my Capitol office in Harrisburg. My staff is not only the best of the best, but they are also like family and a huge part of my success. I will miss them more than I can say. I know the people in this district will also miss their hard work and dedication. As a team, we have tried to help every person who walked through our door, helping them navigate through government’s red tape and various other issues.
I thank you all for standing by me for so many years and allowing me to be your representative in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. It has been a dream come true.”
