State Senator Mike Waugh (R-York) announced today that he will not be seeking re-election to the Senate chamber in 2014. Waugh is a member of the body’s leadership, serving as Majority Caucus Chairman and his retirement is sure to shake up the party ranks.

“It has been my honor and privilege to serve the fine people of York County in the Senate for four terms, and in the House before that,” Senator Waugh said. “Words cannot express how much I appreciate the trust that my constituents have put in me. I’ve always done my best to represent their interests at home and in the Capitol.”

Although the Senator did not specifically address the issue, his statement indicated that he has been diagnosed with a medical condition which will require treatment. Nevertheless, he made it clear that he is optimistic he will recover.

“I’ve enjoyed every part of representing the 28th District,” Senator Waugh said. “Making the decision not to run again is difficult, but I’ve been considering it for many months and my family and I know that this is the right time for me to move on to other interests. I’ve been blessed to meet thousands of wonderful people through the years, many of whom have become good friends. I’ll always have fond memories of my years in the General Assembly.”

Senator Waugh has served in upper chamber since 1999, and previously served six years in the State House. The 28th district is comprised entirely of parts of York County and consists of most of the central and southern sections. It’s a safe Republican seat.

Last month, the York Daily Record reported reported that Steve Chronister, the president of the York County Board of Commissioners, was considering running for Waugh’s seat if chose not to seek re-election.

State Rep. Ron Miller (R-Jacobus) also expressed interest, although he seemed to think it unlikely that Waugh would retire.

“But I think the same rumor was flying around four years ago, and nothing came of it,” Miller said at the time. “So I’m not getting too excited about it.”