Rodney Tom backs out of 8th District congressional raceBy NEIL MODIE
P-I REPORTERState Sen. Rodney Tom abandoned the 8th District congressional race Wednesday and endorsed his rival for the Democratic nomination, Darcy Burner, who is reprising her 2006 campaign against Republican Rep. Dave Reichert.
The Medina lawmaker's surprising withdrawal, seven weeks after announcing his candidacy, ended his effort to cast himself as a political moderate more in tune with the suburban, increasingly Democrat-leaning district than Burner, a favorite of anti-Iraq war activists and liberal political bloggers. The suburban district encompasses most of the eastern parts of King and Pierce counties.
"Our fundraising was going great, but Darcy Burner's campaign has been phenomenal," Tom said in an e-mailed statement. "Darcy has over 3,200 contributors, an incredible statement to her broad base of support."
Tom, 44, said his "purpose from the start was to replace the current congressman with someone who actually represents the values of the 8th District. Dave Reichert is completely out of step with the values shared in this district. Darcy burner's campaign has proven they have the leadership, strength and momentum to win next November."
