Longtime Lexington state rep withdraws re-election bid
Susan Westrom, D-Lexington, announced late Thursday that she won’t run for re-election in 2022.
The Democratic veteran has served Lexington’s 79th House District since 1999. She officially withdrew her filing for re-election to the seat, and will continue her term through the year according to a release from House Democrats.
In a statement, Westrom called serving her district “a highlight of my life journey.” She told the Herald-Leader that this year will “probably” mark the end of her career as an elected official, but that she’ll look to stay involved in public service.
“My goal was to retire from the General Assembly before I began sleeping in my legislative chair in the House chamber,” Westrom said. “That still may be years off, but it is time for someone else to take on this role and bring fresh eyes and ideas to meet the challenges and opportunities we face in our community and across the commonwealth.”
Westrom’s withdrawal from the district leaves two Democratic contenders to duke it out in the May primary, with no Republican challengers.
The densely populated district that includes the University of Kentucky and a chunk of Lexington to the immediate South and East of downtown will decide between newcomers Chad Aull and Justin Bramhall in May.
Westrom did not officially endorse a candidate to replace her, but said that Aull entering the race in early January made her feel comfortable withdrawing. She spoke highly of Aull, a former Democratic campaign and executive branch staffer, in an interview on Friday.
“I really like him. I feel like my people would be well cared for and communicated with,” Westrom said. “I really like it that he has work towards this not because he thinks that he’s going to be very important, but because he can make a difference.”
Westrom added that she likely would have stayed in the race if a Republican filed. In most of her previous 11 races, Republicans ran someone against her.
The press release called Westrom “a known child advocate,” highlighting her work to get juveniles out of adult jails. It also pointed to her sponsorship of the “Smoke Free Kentucky” bill, housing legislation and advocacy for the horse industry.
Westrom said in the release that she thinks Fayette County has “made strides” since her election.
“I believe that overall, Fayette County has made tremendous strides since I was first elected,” Westrom said. “I’m convinced, though, that even better days are ahead as relationships are grown with many new members. I may no longer be serving in the House starting next year, but my heart for public service will remain strong.”
This story was originally published February 11, 2022 at 7:17 AM.
