Senate President Courtney may not seek another term

SALEM, Ore. (AP) – The future of one of Oregon Legislature’s most powerful members is uncertain.
 
The Oregonian/OregonLive reports (http://bit.ly/2vYq1oA ) Senate President Peter Courtney said Thursday he has yet to decide whether he will retire or return for another year.
 
The 74-year-old Democrat’s contemplations of retirement come after achieving career milestones such as most-tenured Senate president and longest-serving current lawmaker, with 33 years in office.
 
If Courtney finishes his full term, which ends in 2019, he will hold the record for longest-ever serving Oregon legislator.
 
Courtney downplays his role in Senate lawmaking, calling himself a “rank-and-file” member and a “player-coach.”
 
In truth, he wields considerable power by controlling committee assignments, presiding over voting and directing Senate operations.