Friends, Family, and Supporters,

It breaks my heart to announce that I am suspending my race for the Washington State House of Representatives. With the possible scenario of a 2-Republican general election ballot, I know I have to do whatever it takes to protect this seat and keep it blue.

This challenge is ending our chances to make history, but not our chance to make an impact down the road. Protecting democracy and progress is my #1 objective.

Our system is broken and I can do nothing but urge my colleagues to address these challenges in the legislative session ahead. Affordability, education, and healthcare must be top of mind this year - or our communities will suffer. It is clear that we have a lot of work to do.

We encourage young and queer candidates to run, but when push comes to shove - we are the ones who have to deal with less. I am not going to blame anyone, nor do I think there is a single person to blame for how our system operates. But I want you to know that the system we have is not working and will not get better without equitable representation. It tears me apart to walk away now.

Thank you to the incredible team that supported me. My staff - Rohana, HeatherAnn, and Cecile - you mean the world to me and your support made the difference in what we have been able to accomplish. To all of the amazing leaders and organizations that endorsed me - thank you for believing in our people-powered movement and in me as a candidate. Thank you to my friends and family that have stood by my side in this movement. I could not have done this without each and every one of you. This has been both the most challenging and most rewarding experience of my life. I am far far far from over in my work to make an equitable Washington, but I am going to step back now to protect the work we have to do tomorrow.

Thank you everyone for this opportunity.

All the best and in solidarity,

Waylon Menzia