‘Little House’ actress ends congressional bid
Former “Little House on the Prairie” actress Melissa Gilbert is ending her congressional bid in Michigan, citing health issues.
Gilbert said in a statement on Tuesday night that head and neck injuries she suffered in a pair of accidents in 2012 have worsened.
{mosads}”As much as it breaks my heart to say this, my doctors have told me I am physically unable to continue my run for Congress,” Gilbert wrote. “As the only candidate to file enough valid signatures, I plan to vacate the Ballot in accordance with the law.”
Gilbert, who portrayed Laura Ingalls Wilder in the 1970s NBC television series, announced in August her intention to run as a Democrat in Michigan’s 8th Congressional District to challenge first-term Rep. Mike Bishop (R).
The National Republican Congressional Committee on Tuesday picked up reports of Gilbert withdrawing from the race after the state filing deadline to needle Democrats, calling it “another high-profile embarrassment” for their Democratic counterparts.
Gilbert thanked supporters for the opportunity to run, saying, “Traveling and meeting with folks all over the 8th District has been a life changing and rewarding experience.
“Thank you to everyone who has given me your support over the past few months; we got as far as we did because of you, and I will treasure that forever,” she wrote.
The state Democratic Party said in a statement that county Democratic parties would fill the vacancy after Gilbert removes herself from the ballot, insisting that the district remained a “top target” for Democrats.
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