Motherhood comes first: Julia Fletcher suspends CD 4 campaign

Julia Fletcher was a member of the United States Navy. Use of her military rank, job titles, and photographs in uniform does not imply endorsement by the Department of the Navy or the Department of Defense.

Julia Fletcher, a former Navy intelligence officer, was a uniquely compelling candidate in Florida’s 4th Congressional District.

She had buy-in from Republicans in the Jacksonville beach communities, and she presented a contrast to the rest of the field.

However, that’s in past tense; she made the decision Friday to suspend her campaign.

“For the past two months,” Fletcher writes, “I have been a candidate to succeed Ander Crenshaw in Florida’s 4th Congressional District. I have traveled throughout the district learning from everyone I encountered about their hopes for the First Coast, and for leaders that will serve them well in Washington. This has been an intensely rewarding experience, which I will always cherish.

“During this same time, I have been raising my 10-month-old son — the greatest blessing I have ever received. Watching him change and grow with wonder every day forced me to ask myself if I could commit to winning this election. The clear answer is I cannot sacrifice time with him for a title. Time is a precious asset; right now, he deserves all of it,” Fletcher continues.

While Fletcher is “committed to helping a conservative represent the Fourth District,” she also intends to honor her “first commitment” to her family.