Bell announces he will not seek reelection due to cancer diagnosis

State Sen. John Bell (D-13) on March 2 announced he will not “seek reelection to the Senate of Virginia.”

In a press release Bell wrote, “he had some difficult and personal news to share today. I have been diagnosed with prostate cancer.” He said he has a “number of excellent treatment options he is considering.” His cancer has been caught so early, and his prognosis is very positive.

“It has become clear to me that my cancer treatment will greatly impact my life going forward, and I must consider the challenges of balancing my treatment, my campaign duties, my business obligations, and my family. For this reason, I have made the incredibly difficult decision not to seek reelection to the State Senate of Virginia.”

He continued, “Serving in the General Assembly has been a great honor and privilege that I will always cherish. He said he was “so grateful to the constituents of the 13th District and the 87th House District who have given me the great honor of representing them over the last eight years.”

Bell said that although he is not running for reelection, he has every intention of serving the remainder of his term to the fullest, and he said he is committed to work with his successor to ensure a “seamless and successful transition.”

The Loudoun County Democratic Committee wrote that they have “relied on John as a powerful and steadfast voice in Virginia politics who delivered brilliantly, improving the wellbeing of his constituents, his district, and the Commonwealth … Our members offer our love and support to John and his family as he begins his battle with prostate cancer.”