Northville's Scott Craig Withdraws from 20th State House District Race

Scott Craig, trustee on the Northville school board, announced last week that he filed to run for state representative in the 20th House District next year.

However, Craig announced Tuesday that he reconsidered his candidacy for the district — which includes Northville, Plymouth and a part of Canton — and withdrew his name from the race.

Craig said in an email that he and his wife decided they can't take the financial risk caused by running a political campaign. He teaches government and history at Birmingham's Seaholm High School. 

"I am nearing retirement as a teacher, but can’t afford to retire yet.  The time necessary to be a viable candidate would take away from my work as a teacher, and possibly jeopardize my employment," he said in the email. 

He said he also recently learned that winning the election would force him to retire early, because taking a leave of absence is not a legal option. 

“I’ve been overwhelmed by the support and generosity of so many people.  I do believe that citizens of Northville, Plymouth, and Canton are hungry for a representative who cares about education and an economy that works for all.  I am sorry that my personal circumstances prevent me from being that candidate at this time," he said in the email.

Are you disappointed to hear of his withdrawal? Who do you think should be a candidate? Post a comment below.