Virginia House of Delegates Speaker William J. Howell (R-Stafford) issued the following statement Wednesday on Delegate Tom Rust’s (R-Herndon) decision to not seek re-election.

“During Tom Rust’s 13 years in the House, he has become of one of the most effective legislators in Richmond, demonstrating a willingness to look at and find solutions to complicated issues. Tom has played a major role in passing landmark reforms to higher education and transportation, and offered valuable expertise and insight on a myriad of other issues. His solutions-oriented nature and affable demeanor will be missed.

“Tom is a public servant. As a member of Town Council, the Mayor of Herndon and member of the House of Delegates, Tom has spent the better part of the last 40 years working on behalf of his fellow citizens. I am grateful to have him as a friend and sad to see him retire from the House of Delegates.

“Though the House of Delegates is losing a public servant, I know Virginia is not. I trust that Tom will continue to serve his community and Commonwealth in the years ahead. On behalf of the entire House of Delegates, I thank Tom for his service and wish him the best of luck in the future.”