Former Asbury Park Councilman Jim Keady has dropped his bid for the Democratic congressional nomination in the 4th district after sending a controversial email detailing rumors about his personal life.
“Responding the way that I did was foolish and unworthy of the community I have sought to serve. I allowed my anger, my pain and my ego to get the best of me,” Keady said in a post on Facebook. “I am deeply sorry and ashamed of my actions.”
He said he is “listening to the women I have hurt, and to the women I have lost as friends over this.”
“I also apologize to the supporters and friends who I have lost and disappointed. And to those who continue to support me, I appreciate your support, but I have to own up to this mistake. I am sorry for letting you down” Keady said.
His withdrawal comes one day after 27 Democratic leaders and organizations called on him to drop out after copying several women on the email.
“I had a lot of sex. I’ve had a lot of girlfriends. All consensual. I’m sorry I copied you on an email. But I stand by calling those people out who were lying about me and I will continue to do that. I will not be bullied,” Keady said in the email.
Keady plans to donate any money remaining in his campaign account to the Women’s March, 180-Turning Lives Around, and the Sunrise Movement. He said any donors who disagree with his choice of charities would receive a refund.
“I wish all the candidates luck as they continue their campaigns,” Keady said. “This nation needs their drive, dedication and talents now more than ever.
Keady had been mounting his second bid to challenge Rep. Christopher Smith (R-Hamilton) after losing a Democratic primary two years ago.
The Keady email was first reported by InsiderNJ.
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