Independent candidate Jim Walden is dropping out of the race for mayor, effective Wednesday, his campaign announced.

“From the bottom of my heart, I thank my campaign staff and consultants, who believed in our campaign and worked tirelessly to accomplish all that we did. I thank the many people who supported and endorsed us. I know today’s news will disappoint all of them,” Walden said in a statement.

Walden entered the race as an attorney with experience as a federal prosecutor and a white-collar defense lawyer. He focused on policies such as increasing the police force and constructing affordable housing.

He said his decision to end his candidacy was necessary because he does not want Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani to win the general election.

“In a choice between values and ambit

See Full Page