In a recent announcement that took the political circles by surprise, Republican Pennsylvania State Senator Mike Regan has declared that he will not seek re-election for his 31st District seat. The decision, attributed to a desire to spend more time with family, sets the stage for a new contender to emerge in the upcoming elections.

State Representative Dawn Keefer, a prominent Republican from Dillsburg, has confirmed her candidacy for the vacant State Senate seat. Keefer, known for leading the conservative Pennsylvania Freedom Caucus, aims to carry forward the legacy of Senator Regan in representing parts of Cumberland and York counties.

Senator Regan, who began his political career in the State House before ascending to the State Senate in 2016, has been a stalwart advocate for efficient resource utilization. In a letter released on Tuesday, he emphasized his commitment to considering the financial impact of legislative decisions on taxpayers.

Regan’s legislative career has been marked by notable initiatives, including efforts to legalize adult-use marijuana and reform the state’s medical marijuana laws. Last summer, he expressed his belief that medical professionals should have the authority to decide if a patient would benefit from medical marijuana, aiming to reduce government interference in healthcare decisions.

In addition to his policy pursuits, Senator Regan has faced personal challenges, notably a serious motorcycle accident in 2021 that resulted in hospitalization. Despite this, he continued to serve the public while chairing the Senate Law & Justice Committee and holding the Vice Chair position on the Local Government Committee.

Reflecting on his tenure in office, Senator Regan expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve Pennsylvania for 12 years. He highlighted his collaborative efforts with constituents, fellow lawmakers, and dedicated staff in the General Assembly.

Regan’s retirement marks the second such announcement from a Pennsylvania state senator, following John DiSanto’s decision earlier in December 2023.

As Regan prepares to conclude his term, he looks forward to spending quality time with his family, including watching his youngest son play college football. He expressed eagerness to continue advocating for issues close to his heart and thanked the public for the opportunity to serve.

“This year, 2024, brings me to my 35th year of public service, 23 as a United States Marshal, four years as a member of the House of Representatives, and eight years in the Senate of Pennsylvania,” said Regan. “I’ve given it my all. It has been a profound honor, and I look forward to working together for the betterment of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.”

The upcoming elections will undoubtedly attract attention as the political landscape in the 31st District undergoes a significant transformation. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving political story.