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San Francisco District Attorney George Gascón Won't Seek Re-Election

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) -- San Francisco District Attorney George Gascón announced Tuesday he will not seek re-election in November 2019, citing his elderly mother's failing health.

In a statement issued late Tuesday afternoon, Gascón said the years he has served as district attorney have been "the most professionally rewarding years of my life."

Gascón's statement continued, "After two successful elections, I began preparation for a third full term. Knowing full well what is involved in running a winning campaign, my mother's weakened health weighed heavily on my mind. She is 90 years old and has much greater needs than when I took office. I am her only child and have the responsibility to be there for her."

He said, "My career means a great deal to me. But success in the world with a family in chaos is not a choice I am willing to make. It is difficult to step away, especially when we are experiencing so much success and progress."

Gascón was first appointed as the city's district attorney in 2011, succeeding Kamala Harris who was elected as the state's attorney general and is now a U.S. senator. George Gascón is the first Latino to be San Francisco's district attorney.

Prior to becoming district attorney, Gascón served as the city's police chief. He has also served as the police chief for Mesa, Arizona, and as assistant chief in the Los Angeles Police Department.

Suzy Loftus, former president of the city's Police Commission, has filed papers to run for district attorney.

 

© Copyright 2018 CBS Broadcasting Inc. and Bay City News Service. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

 

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