Washington Mayor Gary Manier no longer plans to run for a seat in Illinois' 53rd Senate District.
Manier announced his intention to run in September.
The Republican did not submit a Petition for Candidacy when the filing period began. In a news release, he explained the decision came after "careful consideration."
"I have concluded that the commitment of my time and energy in seeking the nomination for the upcoming election is not compatible with my current commitment to serve the citizens of Washington, Illinois, as its mayor, and my efforts to keep our great city moving in a positive direction," wrote Manier.
He clarified at the end of the release that he is not ruling out a state senate run in the future.
The end of Manier's campaign reduces the field of announced candidates to three other Republicans: Grundy County Board chair Chris Balkema, family farm CEO Mike Kirkton, and agriculture teacher Jesse Faber.
Illinois' 53rd district includes portions of 13 counties spread across the center of the state.
The 2024 primary is March 19, with the general election is Nov. 5.
