Women’s rights advocate Sandra Fluke has decided not to run for the Congressional seat soon to be vacated by retiring California Rep. Henry Waxman. Instead, she has decided that a seat in the state Senate is the best way for her to enter politics.
On Tuesday, Waxman’s spokesperson confirmed that she had filed paperwork with the California Democratic Party for an endorsement, in case she decided to run for Congress. However, in a statement to CNN, Fluke said that she has decided not to run for the national office.
“I feel there is better way for me to advance the causes that are important to our community,” Fluke said. “After careful consideration, I am proud to announce my candidacy for the 26th District of the California State Senate.”
She told the Los Angeles Times Tuesday night that she was “moved” by the support she received when she said she might run for political office. Ultimately, though, she decided to fight for women’s rights in Sacramento, not Washington.
“I am committed to continuing that fight in Sacramento, working to protect our environment, ensure our access to health care, and create the jobs that are desperately needed,” she told the LA Times. “While I strongly considered offering my candidacy for Congress, I feel there is a better way for me to advance the causes that are important to our community.”
The California State Senate’s 26th district covers West Hollywood, West Los Angeles, and Santa Monica.
Fluke became a national figure after she testified before a House committee in support of insurance coverage of contraception. She was was called a “slut” by radio host Rush Limbaugh, who later apologized. She has since passed the California bar exam and has been active in the Democratic party.
Waxman announced his retirement last week. Ted Lieu, who currently holds the state Senate seat Fluke plans to run for, is one of the top candidates running to replace Waxman.
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