State Rep. Christopher Markey Won’t Seek Re-Election, Expected to Run for D.A.

State Representative Christopher Markey announced today that he will not seek re-election to the Massachusetts House of Representatives in November, and is expected to make an announcement next week that he is running for Bristol County District Attorney.

Markey’s Message to the 9th Bristol District

Markey released a letter today addressed to the citizens of the 9th Bristol District, which he has served since 2011, representing the people of Dartmouth and New Bedford.

A Look Back at 15 Years on Beacon Hill

“I have often said that our community is the hidden gem of the Commonwealth. There is no other place I would call home, raise my children, and serve as State Representative. I am forever grateful that for 15 years you entrusted me to be your voice on Beacon Hill,” Markey wrote.

In his letter, Markey thanked his family – wife Michaela and children Clare, Nora, Declan and Bridget – as well as his colleagues in the local delegation: Senator Mark Montigny and Representatives Antonio Cabral, Chris Hendricks, Mark Sylvia and Steven Ouellette.

“Finally, I would like to thank the voters for their support and confidence as we worked together to build a stronger Commonwealth,” Markey wrote.

What’s Next: A Potential DA Campaign

Markey said in the letter that “in the coming weeks” he would share what comes next, but in a New Bedford Light article published on Thursday, January 22, Markey said he will make a formal announcement on January 31 that he will run for Bristol County District Attorney.

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This comes just days after current D.A. Thomas Quinn III announced that he will not be seeking re-election in November. Seth Aitken already announced last summer that he will be the first Republican to run for the seat in over 50 years.

READ MORE: Bristol County District Attorney Tom Quinn Won't Seek Re-Election

In the meantime, Markey remains committed to closing out his time as a legislator in strong fashion.

“As a legislator, my goal has always been to help people reach their highest potential,” Markey wrote. “You can rest assured that until my term expires, I will diligently continue that work as your State Representative.”