Kentucky state Sen. John Schickel, R-Union, announced Tuesday that he will not seek reelection next year.

Schickel was first elected from Boone County’s 11th Senate District ?in 2008.

In a news release, Schickel, a former U.S. marshall, said: “The Kentucky General Assembly, like the U.S. Congress, was founded to be a citizen legislature. Members of the House and Senate come from many professions, including law enforcement and corrections, like myself, and others are educators, attorneys, small business owners, and more.? I have always thought citizen legislators should not make a career out of their service because I strongly believe in the founding principles of a government of the people and by the people.?

?“For that reason, I will not seek reelection in the coming year. My time as your state senator will conclude in December 2024.”

The filing deadline for next year’s Kentucky election is Jan. 5.

Schickel said he plans to advocate for Boone County in the biennial budget, which the legislature will adopt next year, and “continue to support public policy that is friendly for small businesses as chair of the Senate Licensing and Occupations Committee.”

Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, released a statement saying, “Senator John Schickel has brought deep respect and trust to this constitutional office and rigor to the legislative process. John ran his committee meetings with military precision, and it’s been a privilege to serve alongside him. Despite being a part-time legislator, John has always brought everything he has to Frankfort during our General Assembly and while back in our districts.? John Schickel is a dear friend, and I wish him all the best in this next chapter of his life.”