OLYMPIA…Senate Republican Leader John Braun, R-Centralia, released the following statement upon learning that his Democrat counterpart will not run for reelection. Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig, D-Spokane, will finish out his current term and step down.

“I congratulate Senator Billig on 14 years of distinguished service in the Washington State Legislature, including his six years as the majority leader. As the Republican leader, I have had the opportunity to work closely with Andy for the last four years. Although we often disagree, sometimes fiercely, on the best policy for our state, we have a strong working relationship built on candor, fairness, and transparency. He has been a strong advocate of open and spirited debate, and a defender of the legislative branch. I wish him and his family all the best as he moves on to the next chapter.”