Elections

Former Rep. Harley Rouda Drops Out Of House Race After Suffering Brain Injury

(Photo by Michael A. McCoy/Getty Images)

Michael Ginsberg Congressional Correspondent
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Former California Rep. Harley Rouda is dropping out of the race to replace Democratic Rep. Katie Porter after suffering a traumatic brain injury.

“Last month, following an unfortunate fall, I was transported to a nearby hospital. Tests revealed that I suffered a moderate traumatic brain injury with two intra parenchymal hemorrhages — a concerning diagnosis to say the least. Thankfully, my doctors say that I have started on the path to a full recovery. I want to thank the incredible nurses, doctors, and medical staff who have made this possible, and whose professionalism and care was a comfort in this trying time,” Rouda said in a statement.

“But on their advice, I am ending my campaign for California’s 47th congressional district today. This is not the outcome I wanted. But my family comes first, and to be there for them, I need to focus fully on my recovery in the months ahead,” he added. (RELATED: Top Fetterman Aide Says Campaign Might Have Cause Permanent Damage, Contradicts Donor Doctor’s Letter)

A Democrat who represented California’s 48th District from 2019-21, Rouda announced his candidacy for the 47th District in January, one day after Porter declared for the Senate seat currently held by Democrat Dianne Feinstein. Rouda lost his seat to Republican Rep. Michelle Steel by fewer than 8,500 votes, although the 47th District leans six points towards the left.

During his single congressional term, Rouda sat on the House Oversight and Transportation committees. He initially announced that he would run again in 2022 before being drawn into the same district as Porter. Rouda then dropped out, saying that he had “no interest in running against a Democratic incumbent.”

Rouda allegedly violated the STOCK Act during his time in Congress, failing to report securities trades worth up to $45,000. No actions were ultimately taken against him.