COEUR d'ALENE - George Sayler, a Democratic state representative from Coeur d'Alene, announced Saturday he won't be seeking re-election this fall, and he assured those in his party that another candidate will soon be coming forward that they'll be glad to support.

Sayler, 65, declined to name the candidate, but said that question would likely be answered by late next week.

"It is a person who values individuals and families and how they live, work and interact as a community," he said. It is "someone who is responsible, thoughtful, open-minded, and who believes that public education and government have a positive role to play in our lives."

Sayler spoke at an Idaho Democratic Legislative Caucus meeting at the Harding Family Center, at 411 N. 15th St. He said the timing of his announcement reflects his intention to clear the way for others to run as the filing period for candidates approaches.

"It is important to have new, fresh voices in Boise," Sayler said. "If we make our service a career, we deny others that opportunity."

Sayler taught government, history and economics for 31 years at Coeur d'Alene High School. He was in the U.S. Army, and served in Vietnam.

"It is time for me to move on to serve in other ways, and to enjoy retirement with my wife (Kathleen), who is now retired, and with family and friends," Sayler said.

He acknowledged the support and sacrifice of his wife while he served in Boise.

"Her support, counsel, and encouragement have been invaluable to me," he said. "Serving has been a challenging but rewarding experience, and I have tried to represent you in a responsible and responsive manner."

He said he is grateful to the people he has represented, who have been supportive, encouraging, understanding, and even forgiving at times.

"I have learned so much from you, and have been personally enriched by this experience," he said.

He also thanked his campaign team, "many of whom stayed the course through all four campaigns. They have given more in time, money, encouragement and guidance than I had any right to expect."

Sayler's final term expires in November. Eight years ago this month, he first announced he intended to run for election as a state representative for District 4.

"I was a political novice venturing into an unfamiliar realm, and it was an exhilarating and exciting campaign with a close victory," he recalled. He has had three other successful campaigns, and will have served eight years at the conclusion of the current term.

He said he plans to continue listening closely to his constituents in his final months in office and pledges to work hard to the end.

"This session is not over," he said. "Democrats have a strong message this year. We have proposed legislation to create jobs and argued for additional revenue without any tax increase to help reduce budget cuts for schools and health care."