James Seward has announced he plans to retire from the New York State Senate at the end of his current term.

The Otsego County Republican, who represents the 51st District, revealed two months ago that he was again being treated for bladder cancer.

In a statement Monday, Seward said he has "responded well to cancer treatments." But he said his doctors have advised him the treatments must continue, limiting his ability to maintain the rigorous schedule needed to campaign for another term.

Seward was first elected to the Senate in 1986. His retirement will come at the end of his 17th term.

Seward becomes the ninth Republican in the state Senate to announce he will not seek reelection this year.

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

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