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Member Of House Leadership Decides Not To Seek Re-Election

Legislative Research Commission

A member of the Kentucky House Democratic leadership team says he has decided not to seek re-election.  State Rep. Johnny Bell's decision could complicate efforts by Democrats to hold their fragile House majority. The Glasgow Democrat said Monday he has business interests he needs to tend to at home.

Bell serves as House majority whip, a role that includes rounding up votes for bills supported by Democratic House leadership.

Due to recent departures and party switches, Democrats are clinging to a 50-46 advantage in the House, with four vacant seats. Special elections are scheduled for March 8 to fill those seats.

Republicans have not held power in the House in nearly a century.

Bell's announcement comes a day before the filing deadline for candidates to run in the primary and general elections this year.