As the 2012 Minnesota legislative session drew to a close Thursday, lawmakers looked to their own closing moments.
In emotional speeches, dozens of lawmakers rose to their feet in the House and Senate chambers Thursday for the last time. They didn't stand to argue for policy, pitch a partisan fit and challenge a colleague. They stood to say good-bye.
Nearly twenty percent of the 201-member Legislature will not be running for re-election next year.
They thanked fellow lawmakers, sometimes revealing bipartisan friendship and respect that belie the rancor that often arises at the Capitol. They recalled their accomplishments, their journeys to the Capitol and some of their plans to the future. They wished their remaining colleagues luck and offered some parting wisdom.
"You have to be respectful of others but you have to be strong," said Republican Sen. Doug Magnus, a Slayton farmer who is stepping aside after ten years in the Legislature. As he struggled through an emotion-choked voice, he told fellow members: "I don't what the next stage is friends, but I'm going to have a lot of fun doing it. And I'm sure glad they're not giving clocks away because I don't give a darn what time it is. I just have one parting thought and phrase: Adios. Vaya con Dios."
Here's the long list of retirements that had been planned. More names may join the list in the coming days and, after the election, even more will join thanks to the will of the voters.
