State Sen. Eddie Lucio Jr. announced Thursday he would not seek re-election at the end of his current term.

Lucio Jr. was first elected to the Texas State Senate in 1991, but his tie serving the public covers more than 50 years. 

Lucio Jr. said he's retiring to focus on his family's needs but adds that he will continue to be there for his community. 

"Whoever needs my help, I'm still there," Lucio Jr. said. "But mostly, I want to make sure I'm close to my wife, who has been very generous, with her time for me. I do have plans to set up a ministry. A ministry that will see me going into las colonias. Talking to people. Trying to see if we can help families with the issues that they're facing."

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Today I announced my retirement from the Texas Senate at the end of my current term. I am grateful for every person who has ever supported us, challenged us, and most importantly, fought alongside me for the benefit of Senate District 27. https://t.co/5HdrWhmm5L

— senatorlucio (@SenatorLucio) November 4, 2021