In an announcement that took the state by surprise, State Senator Ben Kieckhefer, (R – District 16) has resigned just over a year before being termed out in Nov. 2022.

Kieckhefer released a statement that reads:

“While it has been an honor and privilege to serve the people of the State of Nevada as a State Senator, yesterday afternoon I submitted a letter of resignation to Governor Sisolak. I’d like to thank everyone who has helped and supported me over the past decade, particularly my constituents, who trusted me to represent them in their government. I’m incredibly proud of the work we have done to help move Nevada forward. I’d like to thank everyone who has helped and supported me over the past decade, particularly my constituents, who trusted me to represent them in their government. I’m incredibly proud of the work we have done to help move Nevada forward.”

The 16^th District includes Carson City and the southern part of Washoe County. The amiable Kieckhefer, whose trademark spectacles reflect his roots in Southern Illinois, is best known for his efforts to improve redistricting fairness. In March, Kieckhefer introduced Senate Joint Resolution 9, which would have created a seven-member redistricting commission free from political influence, similar to a 2020 citizen-driven initiative that failed to gather enough signatures to land on that year’s ballot. The resolution died on Apr 10, 2021.

Assemblywoman Lisa Krasner has already announced her intention to seek Kieckhefer’s seat in the upper house.

The Nevada Globe has reached out to Sen Kieckhefer via phone and email for comment. This story will be updated when he responds.