Brian Kolb, a GOP candidate for New York governor, is dropping out of the race.
The current New York State Assembly leader issued the following statement on Friday.
"It is with a heavy heart that today I am announcing I am ending my campaign for Governor of New York.
As I left my home before dawn this morning, saying good-bye to my incredible wife, I knew that I'd be spending the next week, the week after, and every week for at least the next nine months on the road, away from my loving family. That moment helped put what is truly important in life back into perspective.
The last few months have been an incredible journey, and I am very grateful to so many friends, volunteers, activists, business and community leaders, and donors for their support. It has been humbling to have the support of so many Republican County Chairs and State Committeepeople from all across our state.
I will continue to serve the people of New York as Assembly Leader and look forward to continuing to fight for lower taxes, good jobs for New York families, and an end to the corruption in the Cuomo administration."
Joel Giambra, a former Erie County Executive, announced he would be running on the Republican ticket earlier this year. John DeFrancisco, Deputy Majority leader of the State Senate, will also be vying for the Republican nomination.
Incumbent Governor Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, previously announced his intention to seek a third term.
Terry Gipson, also a Democrat and former State Senator, is adding his name to the ticket as well.
Larry Sharpe, a businessman and Marine Corps. veteran is running on the Libertarian ticket.
The 2018 Gubernatorial election is set for November 6.
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