Eric Liu ends challenge to Adam Kline

Looks like State Senator Adam Kline won't have to worry about facing a serious challenge from a fellow Democrat this year: Author and activist Eric Liu, who declared his intention to run against Kline in the 37th District (and was to be to Kline's big competition), has just decided to drop out.

In a statement posted on his website and released to NPI via email, Liu explained that campaigning has taken a toll on his family life.

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.

He then concluded:

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.

Liu originally announced his decision last night, at the 37th District Democrats' regular monthly meeting. From what we've heard on Twitter and Facebook, people in the room were surprised when he got up to declare his intention to end his candidacy. But it sounds like he's quitting for the best of reasons. And he's learned something from being a candidate: It's a heck of a lot of work.

One other Seattle Democratic senator still faces a primary opponent from his own party: Ken Jacobsen, who has served in the Legislature for about as long as anybody can remember, is being challenged by David Frockt.