Long-Serving State Rep. Retires To Focus On Health

MANSFIELD, CT — State Representative Linda Orange (D-Colchester, Lebanon, Windham, Mansfield) announced her intention to resign her seat in the General Assembly effective Feb. 1, 2020. She is retiring to focus her attention on her health.

Orange has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, NBC CT reported. Orange, who serves as deputy speaker, was elected to the state legislature in November 1996.

"Virtually anyone who has met Linda Orange would agree that she is the sunshine of the State Capitol – equal parts optimistic, caring, humorous, and joyful, and her warmhearted laugh fills the room," Gov. Ned Lamont said in a statement. "She is a vocal advocate on behalf of her constituents in eastern Connecticut and remains one of the most ardent champions supporting our state’s first responders. I am certain that this was a difficult decision and it is with great sadness that we received this news. We are grateful for the public service she has provided our state throughout her years in office."