Democrat Jeff Oshins suspends congressional campaign
Jeff Oshins, a candidate for the 24th Congressional District, representing the Central Coast, withdrew from the race to succeed Representative Lois Capps (D-Santa Barbara).
Oshins did not file nomination papers with the County Registrar of Voters before the March 11, 2016 deadline to have his name placed on the ballot.
In a statement, Oshins blamed his late entry into the race for his failure to mount a successful campaign. “Despite the lure of a grassroots movement, ultimately I decided that I could not succeed against candidates who’ve been in the race for years, raised millions of dollars, and secured high profile endorsement. Still, the response I received in the two months I campaigned was most encouraging and heartening.
“Student debt and the high cost of higher education is why I entered this race. I received almost unanimous support for reforming the college loan and repayment system. All the candidates in this race, both Democrats and Republicans, have recognized that legislative solutions must be crafted to lower the high cost of education and lessen the financial burden on those who owe and are incurring college debt.
“I want to thank all those who gave me their support and encourage them to demand meaningful reform of the college loan system.”