A candidate for 14th Judicial District Court Division G judge has withdrawn from the race.

Attorney King Alexander said in an email Friday that he had mailed a letter of withdrawal to the Secretary of State’s Office. Alexander, a lawyer with the Calcasieu Public Defender’s Office, was challenging incumbent Mike Canaday.

“After thoughtful consideration and heartfelt discussion with my family, friends, and colleagues, I have decided that my focus at this time should remain on my family, clients, and community,” Alexander said.

“I am not closing the door on future endeavors but feel that currently my energies should be spent in the public service in which I am already engaged, which has been very meaningful to me, and effective on the whole for those I serve.”

Canaday will now be re-elected unopposed. Alexander said he had already congratulated Canaday.

“We take this opportunity to extend thanks to all those who have tirelessly assisted our campaign,” Alexander said. “Our gratitude cannot be put into words. Our faith reminds us that great opportunities and new challenges lie ahead. I would like to thank the citizens of Calcasieu Parish for their kindness and encouragement, and I ask for understanding from those who are disappointed to learn of my decision.”(MGNonline)