Candidate Withdraws From Attleboro Preliminary Election

Attleboro candidate Howard Levine has withdrawn his name from the race for Attleboro City Councilor, Ward 5, just one day before a candidates' debate and one week away from the preliminary election. 

Levine was running against former and a newcomer, , for a seat in the council chamber horseshoe.

The Ward 5 resident attributed his decision to withdraw on medical issues.

"I having a medical problem," Levine said. "Because of it I’m lacking getting out there and going door to door. I felt it was the right thing to do at this time."

Levine said his medical issue is the only reason for withdrawing from the race.

"It has nothing to do with at all," Levine said. "I think I would have won."

Levine said he will endorse opponent Jeremy Denlea and plans to introduce Denlea to some of his closest supporters by going door to door with Denlea.

"I'll be going with him and if he can come over on Saturday and get his signs up before the election on Tuesday," he said.

The withdrawal came as a surprise for Denlea who said he was surprised by the move.

"It shows he really cares about Attleboro," Denlea said. "He puts bipartisanism first. He's a man with dignity and honor and I'm going to thank Mr. Levine."

While he has announced his withdrawal, Levine's name will still be on the ballot come September 20.

"I’m sorry for the city because I got the definitive answer from Maryann Draine that the city still has to have the election," Levine said. "If I win the election I have to send her a notarized letter saying that I’ve withdrawn."

Other officials, including Mayor Kevin Dumas, City Councilors Kim Allard and Council President Frank Cook congratulated Denlea Tuesday night after the City Council wrapped up its committee meeting. 

"I'll be working with you in January," Denlea told Dumas.