Susan Christopher, director of the nonprofit LoveSCV and former Castaic school board member, dropped out of the race for the California State Assembly Wednesday, less than a week after the formal announcement, officials said.

“It was the right decision on many levels,” Christopher said. “It was a much bigger endeavor than I anticipated when I first entered the race.”

Christopher stepped down from the campaign to focus on her nonprofit work in the Santa Clarita Valley.

“The campaign would have jeopardized the work I’m already doing in our district through my nonprofit, LoveSCV, and helping our schools, resource centers and families in any way I can. That is my public service and I’m proud to continue serving our community in that capacity.”

See Related: Former Castaic School Board Member Susan Christopher Announces Assembly Run

The nonprofit leader started her campaign with an endorsement from the current Assemblymember Christy Smith, who is now running for Congress.

“I’m grateful that Christy Smith considered me an option to carry on her good work in the state. My great hope is that my inability to continue in no way harms her or her campaign,” Christopher said. “She’s the best person to continue serving our community in Washington and I wish her the best of luck.”

The Smith Assembly campaign made an over $9,000 donation to Christopher’s campaign, which she plans to return.

Christopher was also previously a delegate for the California School Boards Association, representing all schools in the Santa Clarita Valley. Christopher is a graduate of George Washington University and holds a law degree from Pepperdine School of Law, according to her campaign.

She now hopes to continue her work in the nonprofit sector in Santa Clarita.

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