Veteran Legislator Orange Leaving House Amid Health Concerns

MANSFIELD, CT — Veteran state Rep. Linda Orange is leaving the state House of Representatives in February after announcing she has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

"Today I announce my resignation as state representative, effective February 1, 2020," said the 69-year-old Orange, a Democrat who has represented the 48th District — which includes Mansfield — since 1997. "I have been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and will need all of my focus and energy devoted to my treatment."

She made the announceent Friday.

Secretary of the State Denise Merrill officially received Orange’s resignation letter Thursday.

According to state law, the governor has 10 days from the date the seat is declared vacant to order a special election and that election must take place on the 46th day after the governor issues the writ of election.

"Major" party conventions must take place by 36 days before the special election.

"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.

Added U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, "Linda’s decision to resign her seat effective February 1 is another example of her selfless leadership and commitment to a district that she has represented so well over the last fifteen years. As a former member of our State Legislature, I had the opportunity to watch Linda’s first foray into public service when she clerked for the Human Services Committee in the General Assembly, which I chaired in the late 1980’s. She was a diligent and hardworking asset to that office, and she showed early on a knack for working with people and achieving real results. As a state legislator, she continued that approach to her work.

"Upon her departure from the State Legislature, Linda will leave a huge legacy of accomplishments for her district, and for the Public Safety Committee. Her decision to step aside was no doubt a difficult one, but in the end Linda’s decision-making has always about what was best for the people she represented. It is my hope that this decision will provide Linda with an opportunity to focus on her and spend time with her family."