Liz Bobo Won't Return to General Assembly

Elizabeth Bobo will not be seeking another term in the Maryland General Assembly.

Bobo, who has represented District 12b since 1994, wrote in her legislative update to constituents that her grandson, Zach Lederer, played a role in her decision not to seek reelection in 2014.

The way our grandson, Zach, is living his life with such joy, courage, generosity and gratitude in the face of brain cancer has had a profound impact on me.  This has led me to take a close look at how I want to live the remainder of my own life, and I now know that after two more years in the Maryland Legislature, my work in public office will be finished.

Lederer, a freshman at the University of Maryland, was diagnosed with brain cancer when he was 11. Lederer has shared his story nationally and has tried to be an inspiration to others, particularly children, living with cancer. 

His story took off after a picture of him striking a strongman pose in a hospital gown went viral and "" became an Internet meme.

Bobo wrote in her update that she is “deeply grateful” for the opportunity to serve her constituents, which she has been doing for the past 35 years, during which time she has served as the Howard County executive and as a member of the Howard County Council.

“Looking back over the past 35 years in public office, I have many treasured memories, some disappointments, and no regrets,” she wrote. “I value and cherish every day, week, month, and year, at both the local and state level of government. Your support and trust have been invaluable to me.” 

Bobo will continue to serve as a state delegate until 2014. In the meantime, she wrote, she and her husband are taking a trip in mid-September to Finland, Estonia, Latvia and St. Petersburg, Russia, returning in time for her annual picnic, Sept. 23.

“I look forward to the next two years, during which I will continue to serve as the Delegate from Maryland legislative district 12B in Howard County with as much energy, commitment, and determination as ever,” she wrote.

“Democracy is very fragile, and we must tend it lovingly and carefully.  Along with you, I will continue to have that as a very high priority in my life.”

Read more about Bobo and her grandson, Zach Lederer:

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