Loyd out of CD3 race

Annie LoydA full year after entering the CD3 race, Annie Loyd, community activist and independent, has decided to call it quits.

According the the release her campaign put out, Loyd will be "directing her energy and focus to address the critical need for leadership in the Phoenix community to bring forth rational, reasonable and equitable solutions" to the immigration question.

"It became very clear to us that immediate leadership is required right now right here in Phoenix. We can not wait until the November elections," she said.

"In the last several months," she continued, "it became apparent that running for office was an impediment to having honest and forthright conversations in the critical areas and creating the coalitions we knew were necessary for constructive and long-term solutions."

Loyd's candidacy, though never considered a spoiler by either the Democrat Bob Lord or his rival, incumbent U.S. Rep. John Shadegg, did attract a good deal of media attention during its run. It also seemed to galvanize a number of grassroots elements in the community, especially activists opposed to the tactics of Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio.

It is likely she was referencing Arpaio when she wrote:

"The loud voices of a few are speaking for the many and dividing our community rather than focusing on solutions for the betterment of our state and nation. The time is now for a strong coalition of individuals, leaders in business, the faith community and our not-for-profit service community to unite for a strong and prosperous Arizona, respecting the needs of our community and the rights of individuals."