SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Former state Senate leader and San Diego politician Toni Atkins recently announced her decision to drop out of the California gubernatorial race.
Atkins made the announcement to step down on Monday in an emailed letter to supporters.
“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,” Atkins stated.
Atkins served on the San Diego City Council before going on to be state Assembly speaker and president pro tempore of the state Senate. She was the first LGBTQ+ person to serve in the top position in the California Senate. Atkins has been a longtime advocate for gay rights.
She officially joined the running for California governor in August, securing endorsements from several high-profile Democrats, including state Sen. Steve Padilla, Mayor Todd Gloria, Assemblymember Chris Ward and others.
In her letter to supporters, she said her intention was to build on the progress made during her time in public office.
“Despite the strong support we’ve received and all we’ve achieved, there is simply no viable path forward to victory,” she stated.
Atkins went on to add, “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.”
However, despite ending her campaign, she said the work continues.
“I believe, with all my heart, that California is worth fighting for,” Atkins said.
Gov. Gavin Newsom is set to reach his term limit in 2027. The primary election to determine his replacement will be held in June.
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