Jon Kyl resigns from Senate, new appointee soon

Governor Doug Ducey announced this morning the resignation of Jon Kyl from the U.S. Senate effective December 31, 2018.

“When Jon Kyl returned to the Senate in September, our country faced many critical issues,” Ducey said. “Arizona needed someone who could hit the ground running from day one and represent our state with experience and confidence – and that’s exactly what Senator Kyl has done.”

Kyl was appointed to the U.S. Senate September 4^th following the death of longtime Arizona Senator John McCain. In his formal resignation letter, Kyl thanked Governor Ducey for the opportunity to serve the people of Arizona.

“Thank you again for appointing me to the U.S. Senate to fill the vacancy created by John McCain’s death,” Kyl said. “It has been an honor and a privilege to again serve the people of Arizona.”

Governor Ducey will soon appoint another replacement to McCain’s seat. The appointee will serve until a special election in November 2020.

“Senator Kyl didn’t need to return to the Senate,” Ducey said. “His legacy as one of Arizona’s most influential and important political figures was already without question. But he did return, and I remain deeply grateful for his willingness to step up and serve again when Arizona needed him. I wish him and his family all the best.”

Kyl previously served in the U.S. Senate for 18 years, rising to the second-highest Republican position, minority whip. He also served in the House of Representatives for eight years prior to his tenure in the Senate. His resignation letter can be viewed here.