Signal Hill's Assemblyman Patrick O'Donnell set to retire

Jason R. Aula

Assemblymember Gonzalez & Assemblymember O'Donnell. (Photo credit: Rich Pedroncelli)

LOS ANGELES, California — The Signal Hill Assemblyman, Patrick O'Donnell of Long Beach, California, which encompasses the 70th Assembly District has announced his retirement.  California's 70th Assembly District includes Long Beach, San Pedro, Signal Hill, and Catalina Island. Assemblymember O'Donnell a long-time educator resides in Long Beach, California with his wife and children.

Assemblymember O'Donnell came to power during an election in 2014. Before, his membership with The State Legislature began, he served as a Long Beach Councilmember, most recently winning the election as a write-in during 2012 to hold his council membership. 

"I value my time as an elected representative of the people, but the time has come for new challenges and opportunities," O'Donnell said in a statement. "I assure you that I will continue working hard to make our communities and neighborhoods a better place. I look forward to seeing the city of Long Beach meet the challenges it faces, including electing a new mayor who will commit to not defunding the police and promptly and effectively address the homelessness crisis."

Assemblymember O'Donnell, also announced he will not be running for the Mayor of Long Beach or for Congress. 

Mayor Garcia praised O'Donnell on Twitter proclaiming, he "has been a friend and colleague since our time on the City Council together." Garcia said in a statement" He's been a great partner and Long Beach is incredibly grateful for his leadership," Garcia wrote. "Thank you for all you have done and will continue to do for our community."

Assemblymember Patrick O'Donnell on Twitter proclaimed:

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(Photo credit: www.twitter.com)