For the past 15-plus years, Rep. Gene Whisnant, R-Sunriver, has represented District 53 in the Oregon House of Representatives. Today though, the longtime representative announced he's not running for another term. 

“I look forward to completing my term and being active in the interim and 2018 session," Whisnant stated in a Nov. 4 press release. "I have already submitted my two authorized bills for the next session. After my term ends, Josie [Whisnant's wife] and I plan to travel more and spend more time with family in North Carolina. I plan to remain an active citizen involved in efforts to improve the quality of life for all Oregonians.  My work on transparency and accountability provides all Oregonians the means to keep a close look on our state government.”

Whisnant's departure leaves the seat up for grabs in the Nov. 2018 election. According to candidate filing data from the Oregon Secretary of State's office, no one has yet filed to run for the seat, from any political party.