Breaking News: Kansas Senator Barone announces he will not seek re-election

Kansas District 13 Senator Jim Barone has officially announced that he does not plan to seek re-election for his seat at the capitol.

Sunday morning, Barone released a press statement suggesting added time in his personal and family life may be a large factor in his decision. However, in the release Barone clearly states his intentions to continue voicing his opinions on a political level, noting the state's spending specifically.

"I intend to stay involved, follow and speak out on issues facing our government at all levels, particularly what I believe to be out of control spending," The statement reads. "Most of all I intend to spend time with my five grandchildren, family, friends and Southeast Kansas."

Barone has served on the Kansas Senate for the past 12 years and states that he is proud of the people's achievements, but, then goes on to say that serving the people is a career with no conclusion.

"We have accomplished a great deal, but when one is doing the 'people's work,' the work is never done, there is always more to do," he said.

Barone's seat on the 13th District serves Cherokee, Crawford and Bourbon Counties in Southeast Kansas. Look for a full story on Barone's decision to vacate his position in the Tuesday, June 10, edition of The Fort Scott Tribune.