Democratic Field Thins in Race Against Lungren

By Emily Cadei | November 30, 2009 3:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Bill Slaton (D) dropped his campaign for California's 3rd district congressional seat on Monday, clearing the Democratic primary field for Dr. Ami Bera. Unless another Democrat jumps in, Slaton's decision will help Bera avoid an expensive primary and strengthens Democrats' chances against Rep. Dan Lungren (R).

Slaton, director of the Sacramento Municipal Utility Board, sent an e-mail to supporters that said it had become clear to him "that my best opportunity for service lies right here at home."

"Working to develop the new energy economy and the green jobs we need is the challenge I truly want to tackle," Slaton wrote. "Consequently, I am ending my campaign for Congress and will turn my full attention to the tremendous opportunities facing SMUD and the alternative energy start-ups locating here."

Slaton offered his support to Bera, a political unknown who has wowed the political world with his prolific fundraising. The former Chief Medical Officer for Sacramento County raised $335,000 in the third quarter and ended September with $586,000 cash on hand. That tops Lungren, who reported $444,000 in the bank.

Slaton contributed nearly $300,000 to his campaign from his own pocket but still trailed Bera and Lungren in cash on hand at the end of the third quarter.

CQ Politics rates the general election contest Leans Republican.

To see how all the 2010 House races are shaping up, check out the CQ Politics election map.

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