Los Angeles City Councilman Mike Bonin stunned the political establishment last week, announcing he would no longer be seeking re-election to a third term. The announcement came one week after he defeated a recall effort, which fell short of the ballot by about 1,350 valid signatures.
Bonin cited mental health struggles and a need to focus on his well-being.
“I've struggled for years with depression. It's a constant companion, and often a heavy one,” the councilman said.
"There are times when this job has made that easier, and times when it has made it more challenging.
"Instead of seeking another term, it's time for me to focus on health and wellness.”
Despite his success in avoiding a recall effort, Bonin was facing an uphill battle for his re-election. His district is experiencing enormous homelessness, environmental, and public safety challenges. Criticism of Bonin’s leadership has come from all sides of the political spectrum.
The remaining CD-11 candidates include public law attorney and community leader Traci Park; Venice Neighborhood Council President Jim Murez; and Allison Holdorff Polhill, former aide to L.A. school board member Nick Melvoin. Greg Good, a former aide to Mayor Eric Garcetti who resigned as Board of Public Works President this week, has also expressed interest in the position.
Read more at the Los Angeles Times.