By Nancy Remsen, Free Press Staff Writer• August 28, 2009

MONTPELIER -- Citing personal and political reasons, Republican Gov. Jim Douglas announced to a surprised state Thursday he would not seek a fifth term.

"As any farmer knows, after many years working sunup to sundown, seven days a week, there comes a time to turn over the reins to fresh arms," Douglas told a crowd of media, his top aides and administrators from across state government. "After 36 years as a public servant, 28 of those years in statewide office, with what will be eight years as governor and through 15 statewide elections, I will have held center stage long enough for any leader.

"I will not seek another term as governor of Vermont."

Douglas was elected to...