Gov. Rose Mofford said she was lying in a hospital bed when she started thinking about not seeking a full term in the office.

On Thursday, her first day back at work since undergoing surgery a month ago to remove her gallbladder, she announced she would not seek election this fall and retire after a half-century in state government.Mofford became governor two years ago with the impeachment of then-Gov. Evan Mecham. She had been secretary of state.

"There are so many things I want to do that I don't think there will be enough time left in my life to do them all," the 67-year-old Democrat said.

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"I feel this one I have to call for Rosie."

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