Patrick Dillon, former candidate for an at-large seat on the Longmont City Council, announced on July 26 that he is suspending his campaign. The decision was made due to ongoing health issues and a recent layoff from employment.
“After much thought, I have to admit these difficulties do not allow me to run the campaign I set out to win this spring,” he wrote in a statement posted on Facebook. “I look forward to continuing to speak up for those who feel unheard and for policies that support those who are often left behind. It has been an honor to connect with so many of you during this campaign, and to support our mission to create a Longmont that believes in neighbors supporting neighbors.”
Dillon, 32, announced his candidacy back in March. His platform was centered around providing support and resources for working-class families, increasing affordable housing, addressing homelessness, expanding access to mental health resources, and finding local solutions to economic inequality and community challenges.
Dillon said that the decision to withdraw from the race was heartbreaking.
“I love my community and truly believe our campaign was and could have continued to be uniquely impactful,” he said. “At the end of the day, it was the right decision given my personal circumstances.”
Although he has no plans run for office again, Dillon said he won't be shutting any doors on the future. He said that he still feels that it is imperative to support the working class up and down the ballot. “Until that day comes,” I will continue to use my voice to fight for those who have been left behind in other ways,” he said.
The remaining candidates in the race for two open at-large seats on Longmont City Council are Jake Marsing, Alex Kalkhofer, Crystal Prieto, Jennifer “JJ” Jeffery, and John Lembke.
