A Message to My Supporters:

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Dear Friends and Supporters,

After considerable thought and consultation with experienced political advisors, I have made the difficult decision to end my campaign for Mayor of Santa Barbara.

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This was not an easy decision.

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While I have received broad support and my campaign numbers have been encouraging, the political reality is that my continued candidacy could split the vote and ultimately help elect the candidate I believe would be the least desirable choice for Santa Barbara.

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That is a gamble I am simply not willing to take with the future of the city I love.

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I admit that it would be an extraordinary honor and privilege to be known as the Mayor of Santa Barbara. But this campaign was never about a title, political ambition, or me. It has always been about my passion for Santa Barbara and my deep concern about the direction our city is heading.

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I entered this race because I believe Santa Barbara is facing serious cultural, financial, historical, and quality-of-life challenges. I wanted to help stop what I see as a downward spiral and protect the qualities that have made Santa Barbara such an uncommon and extraordinary community.

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Sometimes leadership means stepping forward. Sometimes it means knowing when stepping aside better serves the greater purpose.

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My passion for Santa Barbara outweighs my desire to hold office. If remaining in this race increases the possibility of an outcome that I believe would be harmful to our city, then continuing simply for the sake of being a candidate would contradict the very reason I entered the race.

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To everyone who encouraged me, supported me, signed my nomination papers, offered advice, shared my message, or simply told me that you believed in what I was trying to accomplish, thank you. Your confidence in me has meant more than I can adequately express.

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Although my campaign for Mayor is ending, my commitment to Santa Barbara is not.

I will continue to speak out, ask difficult questions, challenge decisions when necessary, and advocate for fiscal responsibility, public safety, preservation of Santa Barbara's unique character and history, and responsible leadership at City Hall.

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I began this campaign because I love Santa Barbara. That has not changed. And it will not change.

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With sincere gratitude,

Nick Sebastian

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Web: SBnick.com

Email: SBnick@cox.net

(805) 705-5268