Oregon Secretary of State Dennis Richardson says he is scaling back his work schedule as he continues cancer treatments.

Richardson’s office released a brief statement Monday thanking Oregonians for their best wishes but also making it clear that his cancer treatments are impacting his ability to work:

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“ "I can't thank everyone enough for their countless well wishes and prayers. Although my cancer diagnosis was made last May, the continued outpouring of support from across Oregon and the country remains humbling. "Beginning this week, I will be scaling back my in-office hours to be able to rest and give my treatment every opportunity to succeed. I will, of course, continue to be in frequent and regular contact with my staff that has been doing incredible work since the day we took office over two years ago. I will also continue to be the decision-maker on all important issues. "Again, the support I have received from so many has been an incredible encouragement to me, and I am truly thankful."”

Richardson has said he is being treated for a small, cancerous brain tumor, first announced last May, though he has provided few details beyond that. He has already curbed his public appearances and the amount of time he spends in Salem.

The secretary of state’s office oversees elections in Oregon and audits other state agencies. Richardson, the only Republican currently to hold statewide office, is also next in line to become governor should Gov. Kate Brown have to step down.

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