Sen. Karen Mayne to resign from Utah Legislature due to health reasons

SALT LAKE CITY — Sen. Karen Mayne, D-West Valley City, announced Wednesday that she will resign from the Utah Legislature before the 2023 General Session.

Mayne, who began her legislative service in 2008,  said her health “has taken an unexpected turn” since she won reelection in November. Last year, Mayne announced she had been diagnosed with cancer. She said doctors discovered the cancer while she received treatment for a broken shoulder.

“After much prayer, personal consideration, and deliberation with my family, I have made the difficult decision to resign my position as Senator for Utah Senate District 12,” read Mayne’s resignation letter. “Since the election in November of 2022, my health has taken an unexpected turn, and the constituents of District 12 deserve full time representation at the beginning of the legislative session on January 17th, 2023.

“As such, effective January 16th, 2023, I will resign my position.”

Mayne had served as the Senate minority leader since 2018 and was elected by the Utah Senate Minority Caucus to serve as the minority whip, beginning this legislative session, as part of an all-woman leadership team. She previously served as minority whip from 2014-18.

Sen. Mayne has left an incredible legacy of service, compassion and strength. We will miss her in the Senate. pic.twitter.com/g1bFWCUXT0

— Utah Senate (@utahsenate) January 4, 2023

“Sen. Mayne is the epitome of what true public service and representation is all about,” said Senate minority leader Luz Escamilla. “Her dedication to her district and to the people of Utah has been thoughtful, genuine, and kind-hearted every step of the way. She has consistently championed legislation to support the health, well-being, and security of working families throughout the state of Utah. Her extensive legacy is a guiding light for public policy to embrace more compassion, more care, and more attention to the people of Utah.

“While we are heartbroken about her resignation, we are rallying behind Sen. Mayne. We look forward to her community-minded efforts continuing to have an impact throughout the state.”

Sen. @KarenMayneUT12 has been a strong advocate for her constituents and we’re so grateful for her service to the people of Utah. She’s a fighter and we will keep her in our prayers during this difficult time.

— Utah Gov. Spencer J. Cox (@GovCox) January 4, 2023

“With grace and tact, Sen. Mayne has navigated difficult circumstances and been a true champion for her district and the state of Utah. I am lucky to call her a dear friend and will miss her wisdom and fortitude in the Senate,” said Senate President Stuart Adams. “Sen. Mayne has been a strong force for bipartisan camaraderie, which has strengthened our state. Throughout her 15 years in the Legislature, she has passionately advocated for impactful change, including workforce safety, economic opportunity and family support. Sen. Mayne’s list of accomplishments on behalf of her constituents and state is long and revered. She is one of the most effective legislators and consistently passes the most bills during sessions. This is a testament to her tenacity, hard work and resilience. Utah has been blessed because of her service.

“With a heavy heart, I have accepted her letter of resignation. Time and time again, Sen. Mayne has fought and won difficult battles, and I am optimistic she can do the same again.”