AUSTIN, Texas — State Rep. Larry Gonzales, R-Round Rock, is resigning early from the Texas Legislature. In a statement released Wednesday, Gonzales said ‘it’s time to move on.’

Gonzales had already announced he would not seek re-election this year. He’s been a member of the Texas House since 2011.

Gonzales’ resignation is effective Thursday and sets up a special election for the remainder of his term. That could take place on the same day as the general election in November.

During his time in the House, Gonzales chaired the Sunset Advisory Commission. He was also part of the powerful Appropriations Committee. Before being elected, he served as a Capitol staffer.

“I first walked into the Texas State Capitol in 1991, a young, eager intern ready to learn as much as I could and help make Texas the beacon of what good state government should be,” Gonzales said in a statement. “Twenty-seven years later, I’m happy with everything we have accomplished.”

Democrat James Talarico and Republican Cynthia Flores are competing to replace Gonzales in House District 52. With Gonzales’ early resignation, candidates will be able to file for a special election as soon as Gov. Greg Abbott calls one and sets a date.

Learn more about these stories and other issues affecting people across Texas on Capital Tonight airing Monday through Friday at 7 p.m., on channels 1, 8, and 200 in Austin and 14 and 200 in San Antonio. Stick with Spectrum News for continuing 2018 election coverage.