State Rep. Kathy Tingelstad, one of six House Republicans who bucked their caucus and voted to override a veto of the state's transportation bill, announced today that she will not seek re-election.
Tingelstad, who represents portions of Anoka County, found her party endorsement for re-election delayed after she voted for the bill and before she voted for the override.
Several others among the six have been denied endorsements, as delegates, caucus leaders and party officials showed their criticism for the vote, which overrode a veto by Gov. Tim Pawlenty of a $6.6 billion transportation bill that includes a gas tax increase.
"While the endorsement process has been a small factor in my decision not to seek re-election, it was one indicator to me that it is time for me to pursue other opportunities," Tingelstad said in a prepared statement.
Tingelstad, of Andover, has served in the House for six terms and is chief House author of legislation giving the go-ahead to state funding for the Northstar commuter rail line between Minneapolis and Big Lake.
Tingelstad said her decision not to seek re-election also was motivated by a need to focus on putting two sons through college.
MARK BRUNSWICK
