Senator from Ruston won't seek re-election

RUSTON, La. (AP) - State Sen. Rick Gallot, a veteran lawmaker who has served in both the House and Senate, is not seeking re-election.

Gallot made the announcement in a news release Friday.

The Ruston Democrat served three terms in the House before winning his first term in the Senate four years ago.

Though he had no announced opposition for the coming Oct. 24 race, Gallot says his young family deserves more of his attention.

Gallot, an attorney, and his wife Christy, who is beginning a career as a nurse practitioner, have four young sons.

Gallot’s sprawling District 29 includes parts of seven parishes, including Bienville, Grant, Jackson, Lincoln, Natchitoches, Rapides and Winn.