Rep. Bill Straus not seeking re-election

After more than three decades as the 10th Bristol district’s voice in the Massachusetts State House, Rep. Bill Straus (D-Mattapoisett) will conclude his tenure later this year.

Straus announced in an email Wednesday, March 21 that he will not be seeking re-election in November. He has served since 1992 as the representative of the 10th Bristol district, which includes Mattapoisett, Marion and Rochester in addition to Fairhaven and part of Acushnet and New Bedford.

“It is a humbling experience to hold this responsibility and I will always be grateful for the confidence expressed in me,” the email said.

Straus said in the email that completion later this year of the South Coast Rail, the project to bring commuter rail service to cities in southeastern Massachusetts, is on the “list” of “accomplishments over the years.”

At the state capitol, Straus serves as House chairperson of the legislature’s Joint Committee on Transportation.

Straus won a 16th term as the 10th Bristol representative in the 2022 midterm election, receiving 63% of Marion votes, 58% of Mattapoisett votes and 44% of Rochester votes.

“Thank you again to the voters of the 10th Bristol District for your support over the years,” Straus’ email said. “I don't intend to go away entirely and so I look forward to working with many of you in the future.”

Straus could not immediately be reached for further comment.