Alabama’s Jo Bonner Resigns From Congress

May 24, 2013

Alabama Congressman Jo Bonner announced Thursday that he is retiring effect August 15 in order to take a newly-created position at the University of Alabama System. Bonner has held his congressional seat since 2003.

“I trust you know that serving as your congressman this past decade has truly been one of the highest honors of my life,” Bonner said. “While I had every intention of completing this term, sometimes opportunities come along that are so rare – and so special – that it forces you to alter even your best-made plans.”

Bonner will serve as the vice chancellor for government relations and economic development with the college system, reporting directly to UA System Chancellor Robert Witt. He is a 1982 Alabama graduate, and Judy Bonner, his older sister, was named presented of the university last November.

Bonner’s 1st Congressional District includes Mobile, Baldwin, Monroe, Jackson, Clarke and Escambia counties in Alabama. Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley will set a date for a special election to replace Bonner.

“Jo is one of the hardest working legislators and a close friend for whom I have a great deal of respect.  Over the last decade I have had the privilege of working closely with him on a bevy of issues that affect the Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast,” Florida Congressman Jeff Miller said Thursday afternoon, applauding Bonner’s work on issues including Hurricane Ivan recovery, the BP oil spill and new Airbus facility in Mobile.

“Jo has been a friend not only to me, but to the many people whose lives he has touched across the State of Alabama and the entire Gulf Coast.  I will miss his commonsense approach to legislating and his unquestionable integrity.   My wife Vicki and I wish Jo and Janée all the best in this new chapter in their lives,” Miller said.

Pictured: Alabama Congressman Jo Bonner during a town hall meeting last year in Atmore. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.

Comments

3 Responses to “Alabama’s Jo Bonner Resigns From Congress”

  1. SueEllen on May 24th, 2013 2:55 pm

    Jeff Miller on Jo Bonner:

    “I will miss his commonsense approach to legislating and his unquestionable integrity.”

    Two things Miller doesn’t have and never will.

  2. greylady on May 24th, 2013 8:36 am

    Let’s see.. Sister is named Prez of University, brother gets job at NEWLY created position. Brother doesn’t even have to run again.. Gets nice pension from feds. College tuition keeps rising. Brother has “fought” against corruption and “insider” politics all time he was in Washington, or so he says. Do I detect a little bit of hypocrisy and nepotism here?

  3. Duke of Wawbeek on May 24th, 2013 6:08 am

    One hand washes the other.