David Rust

TIOGA – District 2 Sen. David Rust, R-Tioga, has announced he will not seek reelection to the North Dakota Senate.

“I am humbled and will forever be grateful to the citizens of the district for the honor and privilege of serving them for six years in the House and 10 in the Senate. It certainly is one of the highlights of my life,” Rust said in making his announcement. “I have a deep respect for the Senate and for the dedication of legislators who do their best to make and keep North Dakota the greatest state in which to live, work and raise a family. I love my country, my state, my region and my community. My goal was, and still is, to do what is best for them, as I owe them so much – more than I deserve. “

He said his emphasis has been focused on education funding and issues, fair distribution of oil and gas taxes, the sanctity of life and protections for the common citizen.

“The decision to retire from the Senate is one of the most difficult I’ve made. I’ve enjoyed the entire process immensely and I’m sure I will miss it, especially the conversations and contacts with the good folks of District 2 and fellow legislators. However, it is the right time to retire with age, term limits and family all contributing factors. Further, it is time to hand the reins over to the next generation of leaders who must become the guardians of our republic,” Rust said.