MISSOULA – Montana state Sen. Nate McConnell has announced his resignation following six years in the Legislature.
The Missoula Democrat who serves Senate District 48 said his two children are in public school and the ongoing coronavirus pandemic influenced his decision, The Missoulian reported Monday.
“As my colleagues know, my kids are my first priority and this decision will allow me to best focus on my family during this time,” McConnell said in a statement Monday.
McConnell said he was most proud of working on insurance coverage for firefighters and bipartisan criminal justice policies.
“I am eternally grateful for the many friends I’ve made on both sides of the political aisle who care deeply about our state,” McConnell said. “The most important lesson has been that Montana works best when we work together.”
McConnell did not provide specific plans but said he looks forward to “continuing my public service in other meaningful ways in the future.”
For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some — especially older adults and people with existing health problems — it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death.