banner_01Bob Miller announced this afternoon that he’s dropping out of the race for Minneapolis mayor — for now. Word that Miller, who heads the city’s Neighborhood Revitalization Program, would “suspend” his challenge to Mayor R.T. Rybak for the DFL Party endorsement came just hours after Rybak delivered his State of the City address (more on that shortly). See Miller’s announcement after the jump.

Last November I began a campaign for Minneapolis Mayor by raising issues that are important to the future of our City. I wanted to bring a point of view to this election that wasn’t even being considered at City Hall. I wanted to focus attention on helping homeowners before they became victims of foreclosure, addressing the causes of crime, continuing to invest in improving our neighborhoods, providing pre-school education to every Minneapolis child, and improving the financial management of our city.

Although I would have liked to vigorously continue this effort, changes in my family situation have made it impossible for me to put forth the time and effort that this campaign deserves. I am, therefore, immediately suspending my campaign.

I’d like to thank those who supported me financially, at the caucuses, and with their volunteer hours. Your efforts have been greatly appreciated and helped to bring my message of resident empowerment coupled with responsible and responsive government to the Minneapolis electorate.

Sincerely,
Bob

In response to an interview request shortly before the DFL caucuses in Minneapolis early this month, Miller’s campaign staff told the Minnesota Independent that Miller’s availability was restricted due to a family medical situation.