Gabbard Won’t Seek House Seat, To Focus On WH Bid

October 25, 2019 2020 Elections, Democrats

Hawaii News Now reports:

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has announced she won’t seek re-election to Congress in 2020 so she can focus on her run for the White House. “I will not be seeking re-election to Congress in 2020, and humbly ask you for your support for my candidacy for president of the United States,” Gabbard said, in a video statement.

The news opens the door to a highly-competitive race for her seat representing Hawaii’s Congressional District, and likely has repercussions for other local races.

Shortly after Gabbard made her plans to run for the White House public, state Sen. Kai Kahele announced he was seeking her seat. Gabbard decision not to seek a fifth term means she’ll avoid what would have been a tough race for re-election.

I’m so grateful to the people of Hawaiʻi for allowing me to serve you in Congress for the last 7 years. Throughout my life, I’ve always made my decisions based on where I felt I could do the most good. In light of the challenges we face, I believe I can… https://t.co/cNcjSNSoZl pic.twitter.com/h3wM6AZLMs

— Tulsi Gabbard (@TulsiGabbard) October 25, 2019