Carlson Drops Out of Congressional Race - Throws Support Behind Cano

Carlson Drops Out of Congressional Race - Throws Support Behind Cano

Democratic candidate for Congress Don Carlson has dropped out of the race in the special election to fill the currently vacant seat in Rhode Island's 1st district. 

Former Congressman David Cicilline had stepped down earlier this year to take over the position as the head of the Rhode Island Foundation and collect a salary of $650,000 for the group dedicated to supporting those in need.

Carlson had recently addressed what he said were "malicious" stories about him spread by opponents and the media. 

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Suspending Campaign

On Sunday, Carlson released the following statement: 

"I am announcing that I am suspending my campaign for Congress in Rhode Island’s First Congressional District effective immediately. 

This campaign has been an extraordinary adventure from start to finish. I’ve connected with so many old friends and met so many new friends in every city and town in this District. I will cherish all those friendships  – new and old – in the years to come. I remain passionately committed to the causes that brought me into this race, and I will continue to work hard to combat climate change, improve education, defend reproductive freedom, and fight for gun safety. But I will do so strictly as a private citizen. 

This was my first time running for elective office. I was prepared for the high level of scrutiny and nonstop challenges to my positions and character. But this race has brought extraordinary stress on my family and close friends as well. That very high personal cost is more than I’m willing to pay for the honor of public service. In addition, we took a hard look at the numbers and the logistics of this race and have concluded that there does not appear to be a viable path to victory on September 5. This decision was not easy, but I’m confident it is the right one for my family.
 
Through all these months of campaigning one candidate stands out to me in terms of her warmth, her intelligence, her experience, and her commitment to serve: Senator Sandra Cano. Sandra is in public service for all the right reasons: She cares deeply about people – people of every race, gender, and identity; her generous heart is full of gratitude; and she has a deep yearning to do the hard work of bringing us all closer as a people to the “more perfect union” dreamt of by our founding mothers and fathers. At a debate earlier this month, I said I would support Sandra if I wasn't running myself-- and I intend to hold true to my word. I will support Senator Cano in every way I can.

I am deeply grateful to all of the hundreds of volunteers, contributors, house party hosts, door knockers, and canvassers who have joined us in our joyful adventure. I also want to thank my incredibly hardworking campaign team who dedicated their time and talent to our cause.

I have taken inspiration every day from your hard work and generosity. While I am sorry not to have been able to see us through to victory, please know you will always have a special place in my heart.”