Potential Candidates Decide Not To Challenge DeSaulnier For Congressional Seat

Two more well-known Democrats have decided not to run against State Sen. Mark DeSaulnier for the11th congressional district seat now held by retiring Rep. George Miller.

Walnut Creek Mayor Kristina Lawson confirmed for Patch she will not enter the race.

Last week, Lawson said she was "seriously considering" jumping into the 2014 contest.

However, Lawson said Wednesday her family obligations to her husband and two young children convinced her not to run.

Former Walnut Creek City Councilman Kish Rajan has also decided not to enter the contest.

Rajan is now the director of the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development.

He said he wants to continue working with the governor to build up the state's economy.

"I really enjoy what I'm doing now," said Rajan.

DeSaulnier announced on  Jan. 13 that he would run for the congressional seat, just hours after Miller announced he was retiring after 40 years in the House of Representatives.

Since then, DeSaulnier has racked up a number of high-profile endorsements, including support from four potential challengers.

State Superintendent Tom Torlakson, Contra Costa Supervisor John Gioia and state Assembly members Joan Buchanan andSusan Bonilla have all thrown their support to DeSaulnier.

Rajan said DeSaulnier appears to be sailing full steam ahead toward the June primary and the November general election.

"It seems like he's well on his way and that's a good thing," said Rajan.

There are at least two candidates who have announced they'll run for Miller's seat.

One is Jason Ramey, a Concord resident, and the other is Tue Phan-Quang, a retired immigration judge from Danville.