I have learned that Christie Stanley, the first woman in Santa Barbara County to hold the office of District Attorney, has decided not to run for re-election next June.
A formal announcement is expected to come as early as Tuesday, the day after Labor Day.The fact that she has decided not to run for a second term has been confirmed by multiple sources, however those sources wish to remain anonymous pending a statement from Stanley.
Stanley, who was elected to office in 2006, was stricken with lung cancer approximately eight months into her first term. As a result she has been absent from the office for extended periods of time while undergoing treatment and recovery.
Last week, senior Deputy District Attorney Joyce Dudley announced that she would challenge Stanley in the next election.
I have also learned from the same sources who were aware of Stanley's decision not to run, that Josh Lynn, who currently is the Chief Deputy District Attorney in the office and who recently successfully prosecuted the Jesse James Hollywood murder case, will now be entering the race for District Attorney.
When she announces her intention not to run for re-election Stanley is expected to indicate that she plans to remain in office to finish out her current term and wants to devote her energy to and focus on running the office.
© 2009 by Craig Smith and www.craigsmithsblog.com
