Below is an context that describes a sql query, paired with an question that provides further information. Write an answer that appropriately completes the request.  # noqa: E501
### Context:
CREATE TABLE table_1341472_40 (first_elected INTEGER, result VARCHAR)
### Question:
What is the earliest year where the result of the election was a retired republican hold?
### Answer:
SELECT MIN(first_elected) FROM table_1341472_40 WHERE result = "Retired Republican hold"