SANTA FE— Senator Stuart Ingle (R-Portales) has announced his retirement from the Legislature effective at noon today. Senator Ingle is the most senior member of the Legislature having served 38 years in the New Mexico Senate.

Following his announcement, the Senate Republican Caucus issued the following statement:

"With nearly four decades of service and leadership in the Legislature, Senator Ingle was a giant in New Mexico politics. The people of our state and the citizens of District 27 will miss his voice, insight, and wisdom. We thank Senator Ingle for his leadership and significant contributions to our state. His successor will certainly have big shoes to fill."