DeGraaf announces resignation, citing struggle with Parkinson’s

Rep. Pete DeGraaf announced his resignation from the Kansas Legislature on Friday, citing his struggle with Parkinson’s disease.

The Mulvane Republican said he plans to leave office at the end of the month. He made the announcement on the House floor as Gov. Sam Brownback watched from the gallery.

He thanked lawmakers for their support. He said they are all welcome at his home.

“I will be leaving this place with very fond memories of each and every one of you,” DeGraaf said.

Lawmakers gave DeGraaf a lengthy standing ovation.

DeGraaf, 60, disclosed after the 2015 session that he has Parkinson’s. At the time, he said he was happy about the diagnosis because it allowed him to treat the illness.

This story was originally published May 12, 2017 at 11:34 AM with the headline "DeGraaf announces resignation, citing struggle with Parkinson’s."