Slaton Withdraws From Congressional Race

Vows Support for Bera; Lungren viewed as vulnerable by Dems

Earlier today, Sacramento area Congressional candidate Bill Slaton sent the following e-mail to his supporters, withdrawing from the race:

Dear Friends,

The Thanksgiving holiday provided a much-needed break from the go-go-go of our Congressional campaign. It also gave me time to revisit a question I'd asked myself 6 months ago: where and how can I do the most good for our community. Then, the answer was "Congress." Now, the answer is different.

The more I have spoken to people about what I can contribute to public policy and the more I have listened to their concerns, the clearer it has become that my best opportunity for service lies right here at home. Working to develop the new energy economy and the green jobs we need is the challenge I truly want to tackle. Consequently, I am ending my campaign for Congress and will turn my full attention to the tremendous opportunities facing SMUD and the alternative energy start-ups locating here.

The window of opportunity for establishing our region as one of the nation's hubs for this emerging industry will not stay open long. We have to seize the momentum now.

This morning I shared my decision to withdraw from the Congressional race with Dr. Ami Bera and offered him my support. I wish him well and look forward to working with him on these issues when he is our next Representative in Congress.

Thank you to everyone who contributed time, talent and money so that I could mount a campaign for Congress. It was an honor to have your confidence and support. Over the next week, I will make every effort to thank you personally. I remain optimistic about the extraordinary things good people working together can accomplish for our community.

Gratefully,

Bill Slaton