The Indiana House of Representatives passed a resolution on Monday honoring State Rep. Scott Pelath, D-Michigan City, on his retirement after 20 years of service, five of them as House Democratic Leader. From that resolution: “That the Indiana House of Representatives bids a fond farewell to Representative Scott Pelath. Legislators and staff alike will miss him greatly, and his departure will leave a void that will never be truly filled.”

“Leaving the House was just as hard as joining it,” Pelath told his colleges from the floor on Monday “I have been through countless tough debates, but somehow, listening to such kind words from both sides of the aisle was the toughest. This journey has never been about me, it has always been about the people I have served.”

Pelath was first elected in 1998, beginning a string of ten consecutive election victories and three separate selections as House Democratic Leader.

“When I first arrived, nothing belonged to me. The seat in the chamber belonged to the people,” Pelath said. “I was merely the steward of it. It now will pass on to a new temporary occupant, who I hope feels the same sense of gratitude that I possess.”

The final day of the 2018 legislative session is Wednesday, March 14. Pelath’s final two-year term expires in November.