HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut's comptroller, Kevin Lembo, said Friday he will resign a year before the end of his current term because of a health problem.

Lembo, a Democrat who was first elected in 2010, said doctors recommended he stop working because of a debilitating heart condition that has been worsening.

“It has been the honor of my life to serve the people of Connecticut as state comptroller,” Lembo, 58, said in a news release. “Over ten years ago, voters took a chance on a gay, vegetarian nerd that had never run for office in his life. I’ve worked every day since to represent this office with honesty, integrity, and a focus on the common good."

As the chief accountant for the state government, Lembo oversees the payroll and has worked extensively on issues related to affordability of health care. During the coronavirus pandemic, his office negotiated contracts to expand testing capacity.

Lembo said he will leave office on Dec. 31. His third term was to last until January 2023. His successor will be chosen by Gov. Ned Lamont, a Democrat.

“Kevin Lembo’s service to Connecticut has been remarkable and his resignation is a huge loss to the state," said Nancy DiNardo, chair of the state Democrats.

A native of Paterson, New Jersey, Lembo spent 20 years in public service and advocacy in Connecticut and New York before becoming comptroller.