George suspends campaign for Congress

AVONDALE » Dr. John George, a Democratic candidate for Congress in Pennsylvania’s 16th Congressional District announced Wednesday that he is suspending his campaign. George issued the following statement regarding his decision to suspend his campaign:

“I have informed the Democratic Committee that I am suspending my campaign for Congress in the 16th District for 2018. I have reluctantly concluded that at present, I will not be able to run a successful congressional campaign this election cycle.

“I originally chose to enter this race primarily because I was appalled by the rapid dissolution of integrity, honesty, and ethics that has occurred in our executive and legislative branches of government. I was also distraught and angered by the injustices that were, and continue to be, inflicted against our citizens and many of our respected public institutions. As a citizen and a community leader, I believe I had an obligation to stand up, speak out, and act.

“Since I initially launched my campaign, the plight of our citizens has worsened. Many of our elected officials have made it abundantly clear that they are willing to sacrifice traditional American values like goodness, kindness, empathy, and respect to advance a political agenda that may benefit a few but significantly harm many. Instead of declaring war on poverty, they have declared war on those living in poverty. They have abandoned the middle class and pandered to the rich. They have tried to make access to affordable health care a privilege rather than a right. They claimed to be fiscal stewards while they plan to significantly add to our national debt. Their silence has promoted racism and their selective blindness has justified treachery. They seek to profit off the education of children and fail to understand that public education is the bastion of democracy.

“While a successful 2018 congressional campaign seems unattainable, I will not remain silent when injustice is being committed. I will remain engaged in political activities and vow to continue be a voice for public education and all those who face injustice because of their race, ethnicity, gender, economic status, religion, ability level, or sexual orientation. I am investigating options as to how I may best serve the people of our community without compromising my effectiveness as a husband, father and educator.

“During the past several months, I have met many wonderful and genuine people; I am humbled by the kindness and generosity that has been bestowed. I thank them, everyone who has been so supportive of my campaign, and, of course, my family, for their support.

“I am investigating options as to how I may best serve the people of our community without compromising my effectiveness as a husband, father and educator.” — Dr. John George