And then, there was one.
Republicans in Iowa Senate District 15 who were looking forward to a primary contest in June will now find just one candidate on the ballot: Crystal Bruntz of Baxter. This after former Iowa GOP Co-Chairman David Fischer announced last week he would no longer seek the nomination.
Fischer cited an undisclosed new opportunity for his sudden reversal.
“After much consideration, I have decided I will not file papers next month to be a candidate for Iowa State Senate in 2014,” he posted Tuesday, Feb. 18, on his Facebook page. “Much to my surprise, a great opportunity has just presented itself that I owe it to my family to explore. Please know that my commitment to elevating our message of freedom, prosperity, and peace is undiminished and you can count on me to continue my work to advance these principles in 2014 and beyond.”
Fischer, who touted himself as a “Ron Paul Republican,” was a key figure in the former Texas congressman’s 2012 presidential bid in Iowa. He said he would refund all donations made to his campaign.
“I’m truly humbled by the support and encouragement I’ve received along the way,” he also wrote on Facebook. “The influx of donations (which will be returned) and offers to volunteer have been incredible. Even those who want to protect the status quo in Iowa politics called our campaign ‘the game-changer.’ I will be staying politically engaged and will continue to post here. There are other campaigns that need our help and there’s lots of important work ahead to keep building on the momentum we have earned. Stay tuned!”
Senate District 15 is currently represented by Sen. Dennis Black (D-Lynnville).