Gov. Gregoire�s statement on future plans

For Immediate Release: June 13, 2011

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire today issued the following statement after announcing she has decided not to pursue a third term as governor:

�Forty years ago I entered public service as a clerk typist with one goal � to serve the people of the great state of Washington. After three terms as Attorney General and two terms as Governor � I�ve been privileged and honored to help lead through some amazing triumphs and difficult challenges.

�This morning I told my staff, my cabinet and dear friends that I will not seek a third term as governor. After much thought and discussion, I know it�s the right decision for my family and me.

�The last six years have been a time of great achievement, and I�m incredibly proud of our work to move Washington forward. We�ve enhanced protection of the Puget Sound. We�re out ahead of the rest of the nation in reforming health care. We�ve made government leaner while increasing accountability. We made major investments in education, including the creation of the Department of Early Learning.

�Through three years of a down economy, declining revenues and increasing need � our state has proven that the economy won�t define us, but that we will define our own future. We have added jobs, spurred growth and made key investments in the workforce of tomorrow.

�The list of accomplishments doesn�t end today. With 18 months left in my term, I know there is more work to do. My commitment to serving the people of this great state is the strongest it�s ever been � and I look forward to moving our economy forward and transforming our state to meet � and exceed � the needs of a 21st Century economy.

�I thank everyone who has supported me over the years. In politics, nothing happens alone � and the support of my family, advisors and colleagues will be my enduring memory. Today my heart is full and my head humble.�