Kentucky state Rep. Josie Raymond, a Louisville Democrat, said Monday she will run for Louisville Metro Council next year rather than seeking reelection to the legislature.

In a statement announcing the move, Raymond said she had “gained a deep appreciation for the power of local government watching Louisville act when Frankfort wouldn’t.”?

Citing Kentucky’s ban on abortion and some medical care for transgender minors, among other moves in recent years, Raymond said, “After years on defense, I’m ready to play offense.”

“When Frankfort wouldn’t pass my paid leave for state employees bill, Louisville did it for city employees. When Frankfort wouldn’t pass my bill to find and mitigate the lead eating our kids’ brains, Louisville did,” she said in a statement. “Help is not coming immediately from the state when it comes to crucial Louisville issues like gun violence and housing-first solutions to homelessness. My hometown must continue to lead to become the thriving, inclusive city we all know it can be.”

Raymond was first elected to the legislature in 2018. Until 2023 she represented House District 31. After redistricting, she won election in District 41.

Raymond will run for Louisville Metro Council District 10. Councilman Pat Mulvihill, who holds the seat now, announced last week that he would not seek reelection to a third term. Louisville is Kentucky’s most populous city. Metro Council District 10 includes the Klondike, Bon Air, Buechel, Camp Taylor, Audubon Park and Audubon neighborhoods.

This story may be updated.?