Jesse White says he will not seek re-election

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WLS) -- Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White spent decades in public service, but he said Thursday he would not run for re-election.

He made the announcement while in Springfield for the Democrats Day at the Illinois State Fair.

White is in his fifth term and is Illinois' longest-serving secretary of state.

He was first elected in 1998.

White said he will remain active in the state's Democratic party both in Springfield and Chicago.

He will still run his gymnastics team, the Jesse White Tumblers.