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HAGERSTOWN, MD News (8/28/2024) – Stephen Schutte, a candidate in the upcoming mayoral race for Hagerstown, has officially announced the end of his campaign. In a statement released today, Schutte expressed his gratitude to the community and wished the remaining candidates success in the election.
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Schutte’s decision comes after careful consideration and what he described as “much mental anguish.” The candidate cited a new professional opportunity as the primary reason for his withdrawal from the race. Schutte has been offered a position within his company that will see him overseeing 11 markets across the mid-Atlantic region and Texas, a role that he has aspired to throughout his career.
Schutte emphasized that the demands of this new position would require significant time and travel, preventing him from dedicating the attention he believes Hagerstown and its citizens deserve.
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In his parting message, Schutte called for Hagerstown’s leaders and elected officials to prioritize the needs of the community over partisan politics. He highlighted public safety, economic development, education, and community pride as critical areas of focus. However, Schutte also underscored the importance of youth and family support, advocating for a neighborhood-by-neighborhood approach to strengthen the community’s roots.
“Hagerstown (now more than ever) needs leaders and elected officials who are willing to put partisan politics aside, to get out of their own way, and work together for one common goal – the betterment of this community as a whole,” Schutte stated.
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He concluded his announcement with a call to action, urging the community to engage with its youth and provide support to families, fostering a strong and vibrant future for Hagerstown.
Stephen Schutte’s departure from the race reshapes the field of candidates and leaves his supporters and the community to consider his message as they move forward in this election cycle. This leaves William McIntire as the only mayoral candidate for the 2024 City of Hagerstown election, unless there is a last-minute write-in campaign.
Story by multiple RFHC contributors.
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