Sandra Fluke is forgoing a run for Congress in favor of another political stage: the California legislature.
The Los Angeles Times reported Wednesday that Fluke ultimately decided against running for outgoing Rep. Henry Waxman’s (D-CA) seat.
“I am extremely moved by the outpouring of local and national support I have received since I announced that I was considering running for office. My entire career has been devoted to the public interest, whether representing victims of human trafficking or advocating for working families,” Fluke said, as quoted by the Los Angeles Times. “I am committed to continuing that fight in Sacramento, working to protect our environment, ensure our access to health care, and create the jobs that are desperately needed. While I strongly considered offering my candidacy for Congress, I feel there is a better way for me to advance the causes that are important to our community.”
Fluke had filed paperwork to seek an endorsement from the California state Democratic Party in the race to replace Waxman. The activist now plans to run for the California state Senate seat currently held by Democrat Ted Lieu, who is running for Waxman’s seat.
Political strategists had speculated whether Fluke and a third candidate interested in Waxman’s seat, former Los Angeles City Controller Wendy Greuel, would attract the same voters. Fluke told the Los Angeles Times in an interview that political considerations did not factor into her decision, and she simply believed she could accomplish more in the state legislature than in Congress.
