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To my supporters:

Growing up in rural Virginia, I was often reminded that I didn’t fit in — too country, too poor, too gay. But when I came to this state, I found something different: opportunity and acceptance.

Here, I was able to buy a home, marry my spouse and the love of my life Jennifer, and build a career in public service. California gave me everything.

I entered this race because I still believe in the promise of California — and I’ve spent my life trying to fulfill that promise for more Californians.

From my time on the San Diego City Council and as Acting Mayor, to serving as Speaker of the Assembly, and later leading the State Senate, we’ve gotten a lot done.

My intention was to build on that progress, to bring real solutions from day one, and to do good work for the people.

That’s why it’s with such a heavy heart that I’m stepping aside today as a candidate for governor. Despite the strong support we’ve received and all we’ve achieved, there is simply no viable path forward to victory. Though my campaign is ending, I will keep fighting for California’s future.

With Donald Trump and his allies threatening everything we’ve worked for — gutting health care, cratering our economy, and stripping away fundamental rights and freedoms — we’ve got to make sure California has a Democratic governor leading the fight, and that means uniting as Democrats.

To everyone who supported this campaign over the past 20 months — whether you made a call, chipped in, showed up, or simply shared a kind word — thank you. And to those who opened up about your struggles, your hopes, and your vision for California, I carry your stories with me every day. This campaign was never about the spotlight. It was about you.

You were the heart of this campaign. And while this chapter is closing, what we built together is not. The work continues — in every community, every conversation, and every act of courage and hope.

It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve California. I believe, with all my heart, that California is worth fighting for.

-Toni G. Atkins