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SALT LAKE CITY — Utah state Sen. Karen Mayne, D-West Valley City, announced her retirement from the Legislature on Wednesday, nearly a year after she publicly announced she had been diagnosed with cancer.
Mayne — who was recently elected to serve as Senate minority whip after several years of service as Senate minority leader — said her health had declined since winning reelection in November and she will resign effective Jan. 16.
"Since the election in November of 2022, my health has taken an unexpected turn, and the constituents of District 12 deserve full-time representation at the beginning of the legislative session on Jan. 17," Mayne said in her resignation letter.
"With grace and tact, Sen. Mayne has navigated difficult circumstances and been a true champion for her district and the state of Utah," Senate President Stuart Adams said in a statement. "I am lucky to call her a dear friend and will miss her wisdom and fortitude in the Senate."
"Sen. Mayne has been a strong force for bipartisan camaraderie, which has strengthened our state," Adams continued. "Throughout her 15 years in the Legislature, she has passionately advocated for impactful change, including workforce safety, economic opportunity and family support. ... She is one of the most effective legislators and consistently passes the most bills during sessions. This is a testament to her tenacity, hard work and resilience.
"Utah has been blessed because of her service. With a heavy heart, I have accepted her letter of resignation. Time and time again, Sen. Mayne has fought and won difficult battles, and I am optimistic she can do the same again."
Senate Minority Leader Luz Escamilla called Mayne the "epitome of what true public service and representation is all about."
"Her dedication to her district and to the people of Utah has been thoughtful, genuine, and kind-hearted every step of the way," Escamilla stated. "She has consistently championed legislation to support the health, well-being, and security of working families throughout the state of Utah. Her extensive legacy is a guiding light for public policy to embrace more compassion, more care, and more attention to the people of Utah."
"While we are heartbroken about her resignation, we are rallying behind Sen. Mayne," she continued. "We look forward to her community-minded efforts continuing to have an impact throughout the state."
In a statement, the Utah House Democratic Caucus said it was "saddened by the news of Sen. Mayne's resignation," and would "miss her strength, grit, and plain-spoken leadership style."
