It’s official. State Sen. Patsy Ticer (D-30) made good on months of speculation by announcing her impending retirement from elected office on the Senate floor Thursday.

Ticer, a native of Washington and former mayor of Alexandria, has represented the city and portions of Fairfax and Arlington counties in the Senate since 1996. Family and friends were present as Ticer formalized a decision many were expecting. 

Del. Adam Ebbin (D-49), one of three candidates exploring a run at Ticer’s now open seat, praised her in a statement as possessing an impressive record in the Senate.

Senator Ticer’s legacy will be greater than the legislation she has passed and the causes she has fought for, Ebbin wrote. Her name will forever be synonymous with the quality of life our region holds dear.

He will deliver his full remarks before the House tomorrow. 

City Councilman Rob Krupicka and Arlington School Board Chair Libby Garvey also are vying for Ticer’s former seat.