Gabbard cited her presidential bid in her decision not to seek another term.
“Throughout my life, the thought of a ‘political career’ never crossed my mind. I’ve always done my best to serve where I felt I could make the most impact, ”Gabbard said in a statement. “It’s this principle of service above self that has motivated the decisions I’ve made throughout my life.”
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/cNcjSNSoZlpic.twitter.com/h3wM6AZLMs
— Tulsi Gabbard (@TulsiGabbard) (October) , 2019
She has staked out an idiosyncratic position in the Democratic Party, criticizing military intervention overseas and embracing left-leaning domestic policy.
Her primary opponent praised her decision to drop out of the race.
I wholly respect and appreciate Congresswoman Gabbard’s decision not to pursue re-election for her Congressional seat as she pursues the Presidency. I wish her and her family the best going forward.
I remain fully committed to my campaign to becomes Hawaii’s next Congressman.
– Kai Kahele (@kaikahele)October 25, 2019
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