Lopez Withdraws from Race for At-Large Position on Tacoma City Council

Joe Lopez has officially withdrawn his name from consideration for Tacoma City Council at large seat seven. We'd heard rumors of this, but today it's official.

If Lopez's name sounds familiar to you, it may be because he briefly held the District 1 seat in early 2014 while Councilmember Ibsen was on leave in his bid to train for the Marine Corps.

Joe Lopez, a Tacoma attorney and former US Navy Lieutenant, announced today that he would end the campaign for the at-large Tacoma City Council seat #7.  Joe explained that balancing professional obligations with the demands of a campaign became unworkable.

“My wife, Evelyn, and I opened up a law firm earlier this year, and the demands of practicing law and building our business have required our full attention.  My choice was to run a more limited campaign, or to opt out, but I’m not a half-effort person, so I’ve decided to step aside. Tacoma citizens deserve the best representation possible, and I look forward to seeing how the field of candidates develops.”

Joe had previously announced his campaign at the end of January when current Councilmember, David Boe, announced his intent to retire, rather than seek a second full term.  Joe said that the experience of running was rewarding, and noted, “I’ve appreciated the support that so many people gave early on and am glad I had the opportunity to meet many people invested in our city’s future.”

Lopez is stepping aside, but there's still a little time for someone new to throw their hat in the ring... Anyone...?