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Connecticut's highest-ranking female Republican is stepping down

Minority Leader Themis Klarides won't run for re-election.

The leadership in the Connecticut General Assembly continues its turnover trend.

The first woman to lead the Republican members of the Connecticut House of Representatives says she will not seek a 12th term in the General Assembly.

Themis Klarides was first elected in 1998 to represent Derby, Woodbridge and Orange. She said in a written statement Tuesday that her decision was based on a combination of personal and professional considerations.

In 2014, unanimously chose the Seymour native as Caucus Leader – the first woman to hold the position. She was re-elected leader again in 2016, and often clashed with former Governor Dan Malloy about over budgetary and other matters. 

Klarides' sister, Nicole Klarides-Ditria, also serves in the House, representing Beacon Falls, Derby, and Seymour. 

Themis Klarides graduated from Trinity College and Quinnipiac University's law school, and is a practicing lawyer.

Her announcement came the same day lawmakers said they're not reconvening the regular 2020 legislative session because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Democratic House Speaker Joe Aresimowicz and Republican Senate Leader Len Fasano have already announced they're not running again.

RELATED: State legislature will not reconvene this session

RELATED: The Real Story: GOP Senate Leader Len Fasano

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