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California Lt. Colonel Eleni Kunarakis has dropped out of the race to run for another elected office for the governor.
In a statement posted on X Friday morning, Democrats said they plan to run for state treasurer in 2026 after the success of Gov. Gavin Newsom.
“This decision was not made lightly,” Kunarakis said. “In the course of my campaign for the governor, I have had the opportunity to engage with Californians across the state, asking their concerns, hopes and ideas to their ideas for a stronger, more equitable future.
“At this point, I think we can have the greatest impact by focusing on California’s economic future. As a state accountant, we bring a deep commitment to financial responsibility, economic opportunities and strategic investments, from affordable housing and clean energy to infrastructure and education.
Kounalakis announced a campaign for the governor in April 2023. Her decision to close her bid is the second major development in a closely monitored race to lead the country’s most populous state after former Vice President Kamala Harris announced this month that she would not take part in the contest.
Kounalakis was first elected lieutenant governor in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. Li, during the governor, is primarily considered a ritual post, but could be a stepping stone to the governor’s office.
The former governors of Newsom and Grage Gray Davis served as Lieutenant Governor.
Kounalakis is a former US ambassador to Hungary. She was also the California co-chair of Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign.
Her departure will be leaving the scene with Democrat Toni Atkins, former Senate Speaker and Pro Tem. Xavier Betera, former California Attorney General and Chief Cabinet Secretary of Biden. Stephen Cloobeck, philanthropist and businessman. Katie Porter, a former Orange County councillor. Tony Thurmond, public leader. Antonio Villaraigoza, former mayor of Los Angeles. and Betty Yi, the former state controller.
Former Fox News commentator Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco are running for governor as Republicans.
In the treasurer’s race, Kunarakis joins former Mayor of Oakland, Sen. Anna Caballero, Libby Schaff, and state committee member Tony Vasquez.
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