LOS ANGELES (KNX) — Less than one week after a recall effort against Los Angeles City Councilman Mike Bonin failed to make it to the ballot, Bonin announced Wednesday that he will not run for re-election.
"This is a difficult, deeply personal decision," Bonin tweeted. "And I’ve wrestled with it for several days, but I’m confident it is the right choice for the right reasons."
In comments shared both on Twitter and in a YouTube video, Bonin said he is sure the announcement comes as a surprise and wanted to explain how it came about.
Bonin first noted that for many years he's struggled with depression and there have been times where his position on the council has made living with depression both easier and, at times, more challenging.
"Instead of seeking another term, it's time for me to focus on health and wellness," he said.
"It is hard for me to speak publicly about mental health, but I’ve always been forthcoming about my addiction and recovery and about my struggles with housing insecurity. I want to be honest here, too. I believe that sharing about our fragility is how we build common strength."
The councilman apologized to any Angelenos disappointed by the announcement and said it was incredibly difficult to decide to walk away from a third term and "all of the work we have been doing together."
"This has been the gift of a lifetime and I am enormously grateful for it," he said, addressing his nearly nine years of service to the city.
Very aware of his following and his opponents, Bonin said in his remaining 10 months on the council he will certainly not "mellow out or shut up," but will continue his fight for low-wage workers, renters, seniors, students, bus riders and the unhoused "who are being demonized and scapegoated by politicians, media figures and some in our neighborhoods."
Bonin went on to say that the end of his time in office will not be the end of his community service, but a pivot point for his work in making a difference in the city.
He ended his Twitter thread with a big "THANK YOU" to everyone who voted for him, endorsed, donated, volunteered or supported him.
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