To my family, friends, colleagues, and residents of Washington State,

It is with deep regret that I must inform my constituents and the people of Washington State of my decision to resign from the Washington State Senate, effective immediately.

Although I had planned to retire from the Legislature at the end of my term later this year, I have reluctantly determined with the assistance of my family that recent health problems including my age, memory problems, and a recent diagnosis of Alzheimer's make it impossible for me to represent my constituents in the manner in which they deserve. I believe it is in everyone's best interest -- my family, my constituents, the Senate, and the great State of Washington -- for me to step down at this time.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your help and support over the years. It has been a tremendous privilege to be a member of the State Senate and work with such wonderful colleagues. I am grateful for the camaraderie, the work we accomplished, and the valuable lessons learned.

I would also like to thank my wife and children for their love, support, and shared belief in the importance of service. Most of all, I would like to express my thanks to the citizens of the 21st Legislative District, who placed their trust in my stewardship for all of these years; it has been my honor and privilege to serve them for the past 17 years. I look forward to assisting the Senate in making this transition as smooth as possible.

Sincerely,

Paull Shin

Washington State Senator

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