Just In: Jason Osgood abandons candidacy for Director of Elections, endorses Sherril Huff

Jason Osgood, the Democratic nominee who unsuccessfully challenged Sam Reed for Secretary of State this year, and who last month declared his intention to seek election to the newly created position of King County Elections Director, has just announced he won't be running after all.

Here is the full text of Jason's statement on his withdrawal from the race.

Sherril Huff today announced her intention to run as a candidate in the February 3rd special election scheduled to fill the position of King County Director of Elections. Huff is currently the appointed head of the department and is now the most experienced and best qualified candidate seeking this position. Her exemplary performance in the November general election clearly demonstrated that Huff is the most logical choice in this race. I have therefore withdrawn my candidacy for King County Director of Elections, effective immediately, and am fully supporting the candidacy of Sherril Huff.

I had an opportunity to speak with Sherril Huff earlier today. After congratulating her, I reiterated my commitment to advocating for open source alternatives to current King County election systems of which I and others have been critical. Huff expressed a willingness to work together on achieving shared goals and advancing the cause of election integrity in King County. I am confident that in the months and years ahead we will all move forward together.

These last nine months have been an extraordinary experience, first as a candidate for Secretary of State, and recently as a candidate for King County Director of Elections. I am incredibly grateful for the amazing support I have received from so many citizens, activists and fellow Democrats. I have learned so much, met so many wonderful people, and had the time of my life. I have no regrets. Thank you all.

Huff's rivals will likely include Seattle Port Commissioner Lloyd Hara, who says he's in the race, and possibly Republican State Senator Pam Roach, who is a rumored (but not confirmed) candidate.

The filing period for the February 3rd, 2009 special election to select a Director of Elections begins tomorrow morning and runs through Friday afternoon.