By Gina Yarbrough
Republican Michael Maher announced this week that he is withdrawing from the race for California’s 21st Congressional District in the Central Valley.
Maher, a native Californian, had been challenging Democratic Rep. Jim Costa, the district’s current representative. Congressional District 21 includes southeast Fresno County and parts of northern Tulare County, serving communities such as Sanger, Selma, Reedley, Orange Cove, Kingsburg, Parlier, Visalia, Dinuba, Exeter and Farmersville.
In a statement, Maher said his decision was based on a desire to spend more time with his family and focus on his business responsibilities. He said discussions with his wife over the holidays led him to conclude that his “clearest calling” is at home, particularly as his children approach their high school years.
Maher cited the demands of past military service, a career in law enforcement and his campaign for public office, saying he wants to be more present for everyday family moments. He also said he feels a responsibility to his employees and to the continued growth of his businesses.
Although withdrawing from the race, Maher said he plans to remain engaged in public life, supporting causes and campaigns in the Central Valley, as well as initiatives benefiting the military and first responders. He thanked supporters for their encouragement, donations and volunteer efforts.
Maher released a statement.
“Over the holidays, around our kitchen table, after many late-night talks with my wife and quiet moments of prayer, I came to a simple truth. The clearest calling in front of me right now is home.
With one son in high school and the other not far behind, I want to be present for the everyday moments, like last night at baseball practice, or helping with homework at the dining room table, and to make up for the time we lost during my years of service.
As a Christian, husband, father and employer, I feel strongly that I must be present for my family who have supported me through every chapter of my life, from the impact and demands of military service, a career in law enforcement and as a candidate for public office. I have also been blessed with the success of my businesses and feel a deep responsibility to the employees, old and new, who have worked with me expanding our enterprise.
In consideration of these duties, I am withdrawing from the race for California’s 12th State Senate District, so I can prioritize my family and fulfill the business opportunities and responsibilities that also depend on my full attention.
Thank you for the encouragement, donations, and volunteer hours you have invested. Your belief in our shared vision has humbled me and strengthened my resolve to keep serving.
I will stay engaged. I will support those who serve our nation. I will continue to support campaigns and initiatives that lift up the Central Valley. I will continue my efforts to support our military and first responders as well as advocating the values we share—family, hard work, personal responsibility, and opportunity for all.”
There was no immediate word on who would replace Maher in the race.
