Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Jeff Cloud is ending his bid to run for Congress because of a health issue, but he said Wednesday night he will continue to serve in his state post.
Cloud, a Republican, announced in December he was seeking the 5th Congressional District seat.
"Soon I will have surgery to take care of a nonlife-threatening health concern,” Cloud, 48, said. "While I expect a full recovery, I do not think it would be fair to my family and friends, to the important work at the Corporation Commission or to my campaign supporters for me to continue this race. With all of that on my plate, I strongly believe that it would be best not to seek the congressional seat.”
Cloud will have surgery, perhaps multiple ones, and begin therapy to remove severe sinus polyps that have not responded to more traditional treatment, according to his campaign.
The 5th District covers most of Oklahoma County and Seminole and Pottawatomie counties. U.S. Rep. Mary Fallin, R-Oklahoma City, is not seeking re-election to run for governor.
http://newsok.com/candidate-ends-bid-for-house-seat/article/3438760