CONCORD, N.H. (AP) – Labor Commissioner James Casey said Thursday he’ll retire when his term expires Aug. 30.

“If (Democratic Gov. Jeanne) Shaheen was still in, I’d stay,” said Casey. “I’m very uncomfortable with the present direction of state government. I’d be a hypocrite to ask for another appointment.”

Shaheen appointed Casey, 62, six years ago to the post.

Casey has differed with Republican Gov. Craig Benson on a number of issues. The two took opposite sides on legislation to raise the minimum wage 85 cents an hour.

“He took a position against the minimum wage and I was for it,” said Casey.

The House killed the bill by one vote. House Speaker Gene Chandler cast the deciding vote to break a tie and kill it.

But Casey said there were other issues the two differed on. He did not elaborate.

Before his appointment, Casey worked for 27 years as business manager for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 490.

AP-ES-08-12-04 1136EDT