Melin Says She Won't Run For A 4th Term, But Isn't Done With Politics

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — An Iron Range lawmaker who came to the Minnesota House in her 20s has ruled out a run for a fourth term but doesn't consider it a political retirement.

Democratic Rep. Carly Melin of Hibbing said Thursday she'd give up her seat after 2016 to focus on her law career and a growing family. At 30 years old, she told The Associated Press that she'd give strong consideration to a return to political office in the future. As she put it, "I'm stepping out of the limelight right now. I'm not hanging up my hat forever."

Among her achievements is sponsoring Minnesota's medical marijuana law.

Melin's seat is in solidly Democratic area so it shouldn't alter the broader struggle for control of a House now led by Republicans.

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