Patrick withdraws from judge-executive’s race

There will be one less contested election in Whitley County this May.

Williamsburg Police Officer Dorman Patrick Jr. officially withdrew from the judge-executive’s race Monday morning, said Whitley County Clerk Carolyn Willis.

“This morning, I officially withdrew my candidacy for Whitley County Judge-Executive. This decision was not made lightly. I am not a politician, nor have I ever wanted to make a career out of politics. Even if I find myself standing alone, I will always stand up for what is right and what’s best for the people. At this time I’m fortunate to be following my dreams and serving the public as a law enforcement officer. That’s my passion. My desire to work in other roles in the emergency services is something that I hold dear to my heart,” Patrick said in a written statement to the News Journal shortly after he withdrew from the race.

“Now is not the right time in my life to leave my career, but this campaign has shown me that none of us have to become elected officials to make changes and improve our county. I will always be a public servant, and I will continue to be vocal about the changes Whitley County needs to become a better place to live, work and raise families. I can’t thank you all enough for the incredible support I was honored to receive. I sincerely hope the current administration realizes how many people want a change in their county government.”

“The end of my campaign only means that instead of asking for your vote, I’m asking you to stay motivated and hold the current administration accountable to make changes to improve the county workforce, improve your county services, finally give dangerous roads the attention they need and fix them, invest more in public safety, and focus more on creating opportunity for everyday people like us. Again, I can’t thank you all enough.”

Willis noted that Patrick had five days after the drawing for ballot positions, which took place Thursday, to withdraw from the race and not have his name appear on the ballot.

Patrick’s withdrawal means that incumbent Pat White Jr. will be unopposed in his bid for re-election this May.

White, an attorney and former business owner, was first elected as judge-executive in 2006 and took office in 2007.