TEXAS, USA — Matthew Dowd has announced his decision to end his campaign for Texas lieutenant governor, "now that the race is emerging in a more diverse way," on Tuesday.
The former Republican chief strategist launched his campaign in September 2021, running as a Democrat for lieutenant governor. He worked as a political strategist for Texas Democratic Lt. Gov. Bob Bullock and Gov. Ann Richards in the 1990s before switching parties to become a Republican and work for President George W. Bush in the 2000s.
“When I first announced, the only other candidate was a white male Christian,” Dowd said. “A diverse field is now emerging in the Democratic primary for the office.”
Now, the only Democrats remaining on the primary ballot will be Mike Collier and State Rep. Michelle Beckley.
Beckley, who announced her candidacy back in November, commended Dowd for stepping down.
“I appreciate Matthew Dowd’s willingness to step back and allow women to compete for this seat,” Beckley said. “Women have been underrepresented in politics for too long.”
The filing deadline for candidates is Monday, Dec. 13 at 6 p.m.
Dowd stated he will not drop out of politics and will announce his next steps in 2022.