Albany Watch

Assemblywoman Susan John, D-Rochester, would only say “It’s just time” when asked today why she’s not going to seek election after nearly 20 years in Albany.

“I know it’s time. It’s just time,” said John, who was first elected in 1991. “I want to respect the process and the people so they have the opportunity to pick the next guy.”

She didn’t reveal what her future plans will be, but she said she intends to finish her term, which expires at the end of the year.

“It’s going to be a new chapter,” she said of leaving the Legislature.

John’s 131st District covers parts of Rochester and some of the western Monroe County suburbs. While the district has a Democratic majority, Republicans have heavily targeted her over the years, coming with 800 votes of beating her in 2002 with GOP candidate Michael Slattery. Democrats have pumped big bucks into many of John’s campaigns.

Here’s her official statement released yesterday.

“After thoughtful consideration, I have decided not to seek re-election this November.

I am grateful to the families of the 131st District who have given me the honor of public service in the New York State Assembly for the past twenty years. Together we have used the legislative process to make positive change for all New Yorkers. I am blessed to have participated in our system of government as your elected representative.

To all of my professional friends, colleagues and supporters, I offer my gratitude for the wisdom and passion you have shared with me during my time in office. I look forward to continuing to benefit from such advice as we face another challenging year for our state.

While I will leave the New York Assembly at the conclusion of the 2010 session, I am aware or the challenges facing New York state this year and look forward to working for the people of the 131st Assembly District.