Friends,

Four months ago I announced that I would seek the vacant seat in Oregon's House of Representatives District 10. When I announced, my primary concern was the lack of a strong 'moderate' voice for the coastal district stepping up. That is no longer the case - both in the primary and in the general, my opponents are reasonable and thoughtful choices for the region.

In running for office, one asks for a lot from family and friends, from employers, and from the electorate. While I am willing to run a strong campaign and continue to ask for support against someone with a radical agenda on either party (as we so often see), I am not willing to ask these concessions today when my opponents are fundamentally decent people who would make good Representatives.

In the end, the Party committee chose to back a candidate I had offered to them after I announced - there is no ego loss involved here, they felt that my suggestion was better suited their current structure and I agree. I could fight the fight - and would if I felt the GOP pulled to the far right - however that does not appear to be the case, Jerome Grant is a good man. I still have a lot to personally contribute, but can do that in many different ways.

As of today, I have withdrawn my name for consideration for the seat. I will remain a city councilman, I will continue serving my community, and I will continue to be involved in state, regional and local politics. And I very likely will be back later when perhaps the sacrifices are not so great on my family and work, and the challlengers not so similar to my own message and ideals.

Running for office is never an easy decision, nor is stepping away from a campaign; I thank you all for the interest, kind words, and support you have shown.

Thanks, Dann

cutterd@gmail.com