Senator resigns with two years left in term

A Kansas City-area state senator submitted her resignation a day before today’s general election – and with two years remaining on her term.

Sen. Yvonne Wilson, D-Kansas City, Monday submitted her intention to quit her seat on Dec. 31 to Gov. Jay Nixon. Wilson was elected to the Missouri Senate in 2004 and re-elected without opposition in 2008.

“It has been my honor and privilege to serve the citizens of the state of Missouri for the past 11+ years,” Wilson said in her resignation letter. “The many friendships developed and fond memories working in both the House of Representatives and the Senate have been rewarding experiences. It has been especially rewarding to represent my constituents in the 9th Senatorial District and to serve under your Executive leadership.”

Since she had two years left in her term, there will likely be a special election to finish her term. Nixon will be responsible for calling that contest.

In the past few years, Wilson sponsored legislation to enact criminal penalties against showing a noose for the purpose of public intimidation. She also pushed a bill aiming to clamp down on using a weapon in Kansas City for celebratory purposes.

Wilson was also a strong opponent of allowing motorcyclists to ride without helmets. Her son died in a motorcycle crash.

Nixon released a statement calling Wilson a “strong voice for the people of her district, and she is also a dear and trusted friend.”