Erick Knezek suspended his campaign for Louisiana’s 3rd Congressional District seat today, announcing on his website and on social media that he’s calling it quits:
After much thought and discussion with my family, I have made the difficult decision to suspend my campaign for Louisiana’s 3rd Congressional District.
These last few months on the campaign trail have been exciting, and at the same time more humbling than I ever imagined.
I want to thank those who have supported me throughout this journey. You have made this all possible, and I continue to be amazed by the generosity and sincerity of everyone I meet.
Louisiana deserves someone with these same values to represent the 3rd District in Washington. We need someone to fight for protecting our coastlines, dredging our channels, promoting business growth, supporting my fellow veterans, and keeping our nation safe. We need someone who is dedicated and fiercely committed to our nation and community.
Louisiana is a special place with special people, and more importantly, it is home. This is where I grew up, started a family, built businesses, and continue to live as I raise my children. It will always be home to me.
I remain committed to our District and will continue working to better Southwest Louisiana. I look forward to seeing you soon.
The race remains crowded with at least six candidates still vying to replace Rep. Charles Boustany, who is seeking the Senate seat being vacated by David Vitter. The pack is led by Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle, who polled top among all contenders in a poll conducted last month. Clay Higgins, the sometimes bombastic former captain with the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office, polled a distant second. None of the other candidates, including Knezek, Lafayette businessman Gus Rantz and former Ambassador Grover Rees, registered on the poll.