He was always going to face a really uphill battle.
But Paul Smith, the Republican challenger to Congresswoman Doris Matsui of Sacramento, was running a feisty campaign. When I wrote last week, after Matsui visited the Bee's editorial board, that she was expected to win a third term easily, Smith left me an angry voicemail.
Today, however, he announced he is suspending his campaign due to a lack of money, and is going back to his day job selling homes.
He left himself a small out (and suggested this might be a fund-raising gambit), saying he would jump back in if he raised at least $20,000 by the end of the month.
"All campaigns must have some support from the voters and it has become apparent just relying on my bank account to pay for everything is no longer feasible," he wrote in an email to supporters.
"As of today, all precinct walks, meetings and events are canceled," he added. "I have appreciated meeting all of you and discussing issues that are important to America and to the 5th CD. I believe our message is right for America and the 5th CD. Unfortunately, unless folks start voting with their pocket books, I can no longer afford to pay the freight and continue to deliver the message that you the voter, needs to hear."
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