Politics & Government

Radle Quits Race for U.S. House

Democrat throws support behind challenger Bruce Shuttleworth.

Franconia Democrat Will Radle has ended his bid for a congressional seat and thrown his support behind former competitor Bruce Shuttleworth.

Radle was running in the Democratic primary for the seat currently held by Democrat Rep. Jim Moran in Virginia’s 8th Congressional District. In a telephone interview Wednesday, he said he was putting the needs of the community ahead of his personal ambitions.

“I don’t want to divide the opposition to the incumbent,” Radle said.

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Radle commended Shuttleworth, a Democrat, on his “commitment to service, past and present.” He also said he admired his “approach to listening to people (and) his general interest in helping to create solutions to challenges.”

Radle said in an email Wednesday announcing his decision he made the decision to leave the race after “several days in discussions with family and friends.” He said he will continue to serve on the Lee District Land Use and Transportation Committee and has been asked to serve on additional committees.

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A former insurance agent, Radle said he left his job to focus on the campaign full-time. He said he has now been recruited by another company, although he declined to name that employer.

During his campaign, Radle said, he personally shared his reasons for running for office with more than 1,700 neighbors. In an email, he said, “It has not been my goal to join the club atmosphere of Congress. My focus remains working to help move our nation forward. Together we can create effective, sustainable solutions to the challenges confronting our community and our nation.”

According to data on fundraising in Virginia congressional races from OpenSecrets.org, Radle had not raised any money this election cycle, nor has Shuttleworth. Moran has raised $462,964.

Shuttleworth was not immediately available for comment. A campaign volunteer, Glenn McCormick, said, “We certainly appreciate Will’s support and hope to see him on the campaign trail with us.”


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