Capitol Hill’s sate senator Ed Murray will not be entering the race to become Seattle’s mayor. Murray had been the subject of speculation — and some speedy polling research — about possibly entering the race as a write-in candidate. Here is the statement from Murray about his decision:
While I am deeply concerned for the future of our city and Michael and I are honored to have been approached by so many people and organizations we admire and respect, I am also a realist: write-in campaigns are extremely difficult, and time is short. Also, the recognition yesterday that Referendum 71 will appear on the fall ballot galvanized my decision.
I considered a write in campaign because I was concerned that one candidate wanted to reopen a fight with the state when we need to work together. The other candidate who seeks to become our civic leader has failed to engage in civic activities including on the most basic level, voting, something Americans in the south have died for in our lifetime.
I considered running because I believe Seattle is greater than the selfish conversation in the Mayor’s race. Missing are issues and leadership on social justice. Issues of poverty and civil rights. This campaign to date has been about one bridge and one neighborhood. Issues such as our schools, neighborhoods and diversity are missing from this debate.
I urge the candidates to broaden their messages and address the critical issues facing our city and look forward to working with one of them as our next mayor.
Collecting statements from the Mike McGinn and Joe Mallahan camps. Here’s what McGinn had to say about the decision in an e-mail blast that just went out:
I respect Senator Murray’s decision to not enter the race for mayor. Eight days ago, I welcomed him to the race saying “Seattle deserves a great debate.” Despite Sen. Murray’s decision not to run, I believe we can still have that great debate and give voters smart and clear choices.
In his statement today, Sen. Murray called for a broader discussion on issues like social justice, poverty, civil rights, schools, neighborhoods and diversity. He’s right. There is a wide array of complex issues facing our city. Over the next several weeks, I will be meeting with leaders in these communities, listening and proposing a clear set of positions and plans.
Finally, the threat posed by opponents to civil rights, cannot be underestimated, and it will take a smart and dedicated campaign to pass R-71. I look forward to closely working with Sen. Murray and other leaders in our city to make sure we do everything possible to maximize the vote coming out of Seattle for this important measure.
