Community Post

Eric Liu withdraws from 37th state senate race

Eric Liu has announced that he will not be a candidate for State Senate from the 37th Legislative District.  He will not be opposing incumbent Adam Kline.

Update by scott:  Here’s a statement released by Liu on his website:

Eric Liu has decided to withdraw from the LD 37 State Senate race, issuing the following statement on his website: www.ericliu.com I’ve got some news to share. Our campaign has been going very well these first two months: great energy, robust fundraising, broad and deep endorsements and community support. 

But there’s one way it has been a failure. I have been unable to be both the candidate I want to be and the father I want to be. At every turn so far, I have been choosing to sacrifice time with my daughter and my family so I can squeeze in one more campaign activity. A profound imbalance has resulted, even this early in the campaign, and it does not feel right. In fact, it has hurt. I’ve been on the trail speaking about taking care of the next generation, but I’m not sure I’ve been doing that to the best of my ability in my own house. 

So after much reflection and discussion, I have decided to withdraw my candidacy for State Senate. As I do so, I want to express deep gratitude to all those who’ve come out in support of our campaign. It has been very humbling to know that so many people are so willing to give so much to this cause. The 37th District is a place of so much opportunity and hope and diversity, and it’s been so exciting to give voice to that as a candidate. I know that I will be disappointing many people. But as hard as this decision was, it was also very clear. I hope for your understanding and support.

There’s no question that the appetite for creativity and change in political life is great and growing greater. Though I won’t be a candidate for office anymore, I’ll continue to pour my energies into making a positive difference in our community. And I hope we get to do that together. On behalf of Olivia, Jena, and Zoey, I thank you. 

0 thoughts on “Eric Liu withdraws from 37th state senate race

  1. You can read Eric’s full statement on his campaign page, http://www.ericliu.com/index.html. Here’s the salient paragraph:

    “I have been unable to be both the candidate I want to be and the father I want to be. At every turn so far, I have been choosing to sacrifice time with my daughter and my family so I can squeeze in one more campaign activity. A profound imbalance has resulted, even this early in the campaign, and it does not feel right. In fact, it has hurt. I’ve been on the trail speaking about taking care of the next generation, but I’m not sure I’ve been doing that to the best of my ability in my own house.

    So after much reflection and discussion, I have decided to withdraw my candidacy for State Senate.”

    I’m sorry he’s not running, but I’m glad he’s making the best decision for his family.

  2. Too bad. I was looking forward to learning more about Liu, and having his presence push our discussion of what we want from our state senator. Best wishes to the Liu family.