Round Rock State Rep. Larry Gonzales Resigns

ROUND ROCK, TX — State Rep. Larry Gonzales, a Republican from Round Rock, announced his resignation on Wednesday.

Gonzales, the representative for District 52 which covers Round Rock, Hutto and Taylor, had previously expressed a desire not to run for re-election this year in order to spend more time with his family. On Wednesday, he made it official with a resignation letter to House Speaker Joe Straus.

Gonzales's resignation is effective on Thursday, which will require the need for a special election for someone to fill the remainder of his term.

Gonzales caps a long, 27-year career at the state Capitol, where he started as a legislative intern in 1991. "Twenty-seven years later (can you believe it's been 27 years??), I'm happy with everything we have accomplished," he wrote in a letter to constituents.

The timing for his resignation might set up a date for a special election on the same day as the November general election. The Texas Tribune noted this isn't unprecedented; State Rep. Larry Phillips, a Republican from Sherman, Texas, resigned earlier this year to accept a judicial appointment. A special election for the remainder of his term is scheduled to take place this November.

During his term in the House of Representatives, Gonzales chaired the Sunset Advisory Commission and served on several key committees, most notably the budget-writing Appropriations Committee.

In his letter to Straus, Gonzales said he wants to spend more time with his wife, Maria, and their two children. Here's what he wrote to House speaker Straus:

"It has truly been an honor to serve in the Texas House of Representatives, representing the values and ideals of the wonderful Texans who call House District 52 home. I am very proud of my staff, the work they have done, and everything we have accomplished together in my four terms in office.

"I am confident Texas is stronger and better off today than it has ever been. We did great work in a variety of areas to ensure the future of Texas remains bright. I want to thank you for the trust you showed in me, allowing me the opportunity to serve in the leadership roles you saw appropriate.

"As you know, last summer I decided not to seek re-election to the Texas Legislature. I am happy with that decision. Serving in this capacity has been a wonderful part of my life. It’s time now, however, to move on, and begin the next phase of what exciting opportunities lie in wait for the entire Gonzales family.

"Therefore, I am informing you, that I am resigning from the Texas House of Representatives effect Thursday, June 7, 2018."

>>> Photo of Larry Gonzales via Texas House of Representatives website