Virginia state Del. Clifford L. “Clay” Athey, R-Warren, will not seek reelection this fall, he announced Tuesday.
Athey, the chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee, cited family reasons for the decision – his twins turn five years old next week and will be starting kindergarten in September.
“Since another term in Richmond would require me to be away from my children more than I am willing to endure, Stacey and I decided that standing for reelection at this time would not be in our family’s best interest,” Athey said.
Both Gov. Bob McDonnell and House Speaker William J. Howell, R-Stafford, heaped praise on Athey, who has served in the House since 2002.
“His energetic, focused, and strong leadership on a host of issues throughout his tenure has been highly effective in protecting the interests and safety of his constituents and Virginians statewide,” said McDonnell. “Clay’s passion for public service and his keen intellect will be missed in the General Assembly, but will serve as a lasting inspiration to all of those with whom he served.”
“Clay Athey not only is a principled, fair-minded and trusted leader but a person of the highest character who is genuinely committed to serving others,” said Howell. “That’s why I and so many more of our legislative colleagues will miss him in the House but certainly understand and respect his very personal decision.
