Sen. Elena Parent (D–Atlanta) announced March 5 that she will not be seeking re-election to the Georgia State Senate.
“Serving in the Georgia State Senate has been the honor of a lifetime, and I am deeply grateful to the constituents who placed their trust in me to be their voice,” Parent said in a statement. “After careful reflection, I have decided not to seek re-election and instead begin a new chapter where I believe I can make an even greater difference. My time under the Gold Dome has been rewarding, and, at times, frustrating, but it has always been meaningful.
In a legislature where Democrats rarely have the opportunity to advance major legislation, I have measured success not only by the bills passed but by the opportunity to stand up for the millions of Georgians who envision a better future for our state. Our system often moves slowly and requires incremental progress, but I am proud to have helped move the ball forward on critical issues, particularly in education. I will have more reflections to share after the legislative session, but for now I simply want to say thank you to the people of Georgia for the confidence and trust they have placed in me.”
Parent has served in the Georgia State Senate since 2015 and previously served in the Georgia House of Representatives from 2011 to 2014. She currently serves as Minority Caucus Chair and is a member of the Senate Committees on Education and Youth, Judiciary, Appropriations and Government Oversight.