Citing family and City Hall issues, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom has ended his race for California governor.
That leaves the Democrats with no declared candidate for the state's top office.
A suprise statement issued Friday by his campaign said he was unable to devote the time needed to run an effective campaign.
"I have found it impossible to commit the time required to complete this effort the way it needs to - and should be - done," Newsom said. He said he regretted being unable to continue, but the decision was in the best interests of his wife, young daughter and the city of San Francisco.
In recent weeks, Newsom has often been criticized for putting the campaign before the City's interests. Newsom and his actress wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, welcomed their first daughter Montana just last month.
California Attorney General Jerry Brown has yet to officially announce he's running but that didn't stop him from beating Newsom in both the polls and fundraising.
In a written statement following Newsom's announcement, Brown called the mayor a talented public official who has a bright future. "I am sure this was not an easy decision. Anne and I wish Gavin and his family all the best," Brown said.
The mayor's announcement had been rumored for weeks.
U.S. & World
News from around the country and around the globe
In response to the rumors, Newsom first went on the offensive by challenging Brown to debates and accusing him of being a rumormonger. He even convinced former President Bill Clinton into coming out west for a fundraising/endorsement visit.
A critical story in Newsweek questioned Newsom's longevity because the mayor announced the Clinton endorsement so early in the race.
The statement thanked Newsom's supporters and vowed to continue fighting for universal health care, a cleaner environment, a green economy, better education and civil rights.
