The following is an email Rochester Hills Mayor Bryan K. Barnett sent to his supporters announcing his decision to bow out from the 8th Congressional race.
Dear Friend,
Twenty-five days ago I stood and announced my intentions to seek the open 8th Congressional seat surrounded by family and friends. I was the first candidate to enter the race because I wanted 
to make sure a strong conservative leader, with a proven track record of accomplishment, represented our community. I was honored to earn the early endorsements of respected community leaders like Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson and Sheriff Michael Bouchard along with dozens of other county, educational and municipal elected leaders. Their support is and remains both gratifying and humbling.
Over the last few weeks I am proud of the work our team has accomplished in preparing for this race. I have crisscrossed the district meeting with voters, party activists and patriots in Oakland, Livingston and Ingham counties, all anxious to get our country back on track. There is much work to be done, and it appears to me that people are truly fed up with Washington DC. Frankly, so am I.
Over the past eight years I have worked hard to build a reputation for fairness, transparency and plain decency in public service. I am extremely proud of the team I have been blessed to be a part of and the work we have accomplished. Our city is strong and has proven to be southeast Michigan’s leader in fiscal responsibility, collaboration and innovation. Honestly, the thought of a difficult and divisive campaign between three Rochester Hills residents seems counterproductive at best. So, after deep personal reflection and consultations with the people I most trust, I have decided to remove myself from this race and rededicate my efforts to the job I love…representing the people of Rochester Hills as their Mayor.
I have deep respect for the electoral process and will work hard to see that the 8th district stays represented by a strong conservative. I will support the Republican Party in whatever way I can be effective.
In my political career I have been very blessed by opportunity and hard work. I am not afraid of either but have always considered my first responsibility as being a husband and father. Those priorities will never change.
I am forever grateful for the supporters, donors, petition gatherers, volunteers, family and friends whose outpouring of support has been overwhelming. I now return back to the work of representing the great people of my community and towards my re-election next year. I love what I do and I wouldn’t have changed a thing. Thank you again for your confidence and support.
About Sarah Hovis