Sen. Ceci Maher, D-Wilton, announced Thursday she would not seek reelection in a statement confronting a current tension in politics: When is it time to make way for the next generation in politics? “I believe my generation has a responsibility to mentor and support younger leaders. Now is the right time to step aside to let them take the reins and craft the legislation that will shape Connecticut for the coming decades,” Maher said.  Maher, 72, was elected in 2022, succeeding Will Haskell of Westport, who left the seat after two terms for law school and marriage. Haskell had been elected at age 22, flipping a Republican seat in 2018. “I love this job, and I have the energy, will and interest to keep serving,” Maher said. “However, as a member of the Baby Boomer generation, I’m aware of the shifting focuses and needs of our state and county.” She represents the 26th Senate District of Darien, New Canaan, Redding, Ridgefield, Stamford, Weston, Westport and Wilton in Fairfield County. Maher, the co-chair of the Children’s Committee, said she will leave proud of the gains made to serve and protect children, most notably the creation of the Early Childhood Education Endowment. She is one of two Democrats in the Senate to announce retirements: The other is Sen. Jan Hochadel, D-Meriden, who also was elected in 2022. Democrats hold a majority of 25-11 in the Senate. At 72, Maher is younger than four of the seven people representing Connecticut in Congress and a contemporary of Gov. Ned Lamont, who is seeking a third term. “I care deeply about the future of our state, and I know new leaders will continue building upon the progress we’ve made,” Maher said. Haskell, now 29, married and a public defender in New York City, praised Maher’s advocacy for her children, her approach to leaving office departure and message for generations to follow. “I admire her so much and how she used her four years,” Haskell said. “I also admire her decision to make way for new voices.” But that new voice would not be his. Haskell said he would not seek the open seat. ...read more read less