cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/36015093

House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese, a Colorado Springs Republican, said her kids “need their mom right now — and I need to keep them safe”

House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese, the top Republican in the Colorado House of Representatives, announced her resignation from the legislature effective Monday, saying she was stepping down to be more present for her kids.

“I have spent the months reflecting on my life choices, especially in relation to my children,” she said in a letter Sunday to friends and supporters. “As a single mom, I raise my two children on my own. I am all that they have. There is nothing more important in my life than them. They have made so many sacrifices for me to be able to represent you. But they also need their mom right now, and I need to keep them safe.”

Pugliese’s decision comes after she had a high-profile clash with Democrats on the House floor last month at the end of a special legislative session. She cited that situation, as well as the assassination last week of conservative political influencer Charlie Kirk, in her letter.

“This was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. When you are called to service, as I have been, it is difficult to walk away at a time when so many things need attention,” she said.

Pugliese is the second top Republican at the Capitol to depart in the past few months. Senate Minority Leader Paul Lundeen, R-Monument, resigned in June to pursue a job leading a national conservative organization.

Lundeen and Pugliese are leaving as the GOP is trying to find its way back to relevance in the Colorado General Assembly. Republicans have been in the minority in both the House and Senate since 2019.