Maryland Sen. Karen Montgomery Announces Resignation

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Maryland State Sen. Karen Montgomery says she is resigning effective Jan. 1.

The 80-year-old Montgomery said in a telephone interview Friday that increasing problems with her eyesight led to her decision to step down. The Democrat says driving at night can be an issue and her job as a lawmaker requires "endless meetings at night."

Montgomery represents northern Montgomery County and has been a member of the Senate since 2011. She was a member of the House of Delegates from 2003 to 2011.

Montgomery is a graduate of Towson University and earned an M.F.A. at George Washington University.

Members of the Democratic Central Committee will recommend a replacement to Gov. Larry Hogan. Montgomery says she hopes Del. Craig Zucker, who represents the same district in the House, will replace her.

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