TOPEKA — House Minority Leader Paul Davis, D-Lawrence, on Friday gave a farewell speech to the chamber he has been working in for the past 12 years.

“Thank you for the friendships that I will cherish forever, for the memories that will never leave me, and the opportunity to simply serve,” Davis said.

Davis is giving up his seat to run for governor against Republican Gov. Sam Brownback.

He told House members that next year he will be working in the governor’s office or in his law office in Lawrence.

Davis said it has been an honor to serve the 46th House District. For the past six years, he has also been minority leader.

Davis thanked his wife, Stephanie, daughter, Caroline, and parents, who were all present, and each member of the Douglas County delegation, saying he learned from all of them.

He also thanked his staff and House Republican leaders.