by TaLeiza Calloway
news@thenewsleaders.com
For Rep. Larry Hosch (D-St. Joseph), the decision not to seek re-election came down to one important factor: family. The 34-year-old announced March 10 he will not run for a fifth term as representive for District 14A.
“The biggest reason is it’s gotten too hard to be away from my family,” Hosch said. “It’s time to live a normal life for awhile.”
The normalcy he is referring to includes being able to enjoy the annual Fourth of July parade without having to campaign in it and finally being able to answer “No,” to his son’s routine question on Sundays: “Do you have to go to the Capitol?”
Hosch and his wife, Holly, have two sons – Garrett, 4, and Gavin, 1. His family is both excited and a little nervous about the pending transition as this is a big change in their lives, he said.
Hosch was elected to the Minnesota Legislature in 2004. Before that, he served as mayor of St. Joseph for four years, elected at age 22.
When he was elected mayor, it was somewhat controversial because of his age and the fact he worked at a local bar. Some residents, he said, questioned the city’s future but apprehension did not overpower the majority.
“Even with that concern, they gave me a chance,” he said. “I love this community . . . I can’t thank them enough for giving me that trust and opportunity to work for them.”
St. Joseph is a special place for me. While the political path is not one he originally saw himself on, he wouldn’t change his course.
“I love the job,” he said. “It’s been such a phenomenal opportunity and honor to represent the area.”
The response to his announcement has been sprinkled with sadness and congratulations. However, all understand his point of view.
A phenomenal passion
Admitting the capitol can be a frustrating place to work at times, he also admits he will miss it. What he’ll miss the most is the network he’s gained with those who share his passion for making a difference.
“The biggest thing I’ll miss is the people I work with,” he said. “I’ve developed some phenomenal friendships . . . it’s inspiring to work with them.”
From his eight years at the capitol, what he is most proud of is constituent services. Whether it’s someone with significant health issues who was denied disability assistance, calling or merely making a phone call to help connect people to the right office, the ability to serve as an advocate gives him a sense of pride.
The next chapter
Even though Hosch is preparing for his exit, he still plans to be involved. One of the areas he is passionate about includes services for those living with disabilities.
Hosch, a business owner, said he still plans to fight for these groups – just in a different way.
For now, his eyes are set on the future.
“I’m looking forward to the next chapter of my life,” he said. “I’ve served for 12 years. This is going to be a change. I’m looking forward to it.”