State Rep. Eddie Lucio III, D-Brownsville, announced on Friday that he will not seek reelection in 2022.

Lucio made the announcement on his Twitter Page via a press release.

Lucio said, “It is with sincere gratitude, yet a heavy heart that I have decided that I will not seek reelection to the Texas House in 2022. It is with hope that I start the next chapter in my life with a focus on family, friends and business.”

Lucio served eight terms in office as the District 38 representative. His first term began in January 2007.

In his release, Lucio stated, “It has been an incredible privilege to represent District 38 in the Texas House. I would like to thank the wonderful people of Cameron County for allowing me the opportunity to present our community. It has been one of the greatest honors of my life, and we will be forever grateful for the 8-terms in office where we worked to make our state a better place for all Texans.”

Lucio thanks his friends and family for their unwavering support and encouragement and their participation for nights of block walking to meet and greet their community. He also thanked his staff, interns and volunteers.

Although Lucio decided not to seek reelection, he will remain active in the community, he said.

“I look forward to remaining very active in my community, our chamber of commerce, institutions of education, and most importantly my daughter’s soon to be PTA. To my colleagues who remain, may you continue the good fight and strive to make Texas the best version of itself.”