Assemblyman Sebastian Ridley – Thomas Resigns

Culver City Assemblyman Sebastian Ridley Thomas announced today (Wednesday) that he was resigning his seat effective December 31 due to undisclosed health issues. He had previously taken a two-week medical leave on March 7th of this year.

In a press release issued by his office Ridley-Thomas stated, "While it has been a great honor to serve as a member of the California State Assembly for the past four years I have decided to resign from my post effective December 31, 2017.

"The reason for this difficult decision is that I am facing persistent health issues. On December 18th I underwent surgery for the fifth time this year. Although I expect a full recovery, my physicians advise that I will need an extended period of time to recuperate.

"Accordingly, I submitted my letter of resignation to Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon late yesterday. I did so with great reluctance, but even greater respect for the office, which involves constant travel, an unrelenting schedule and high stress. Unfortunately, at this point, I am no longer able to deliver the effort my constituents in the 54th District deserve. Consequently, I am also terminating my reelection campaign.

"When I resume public life I intend to remain active in civic affairs, where my passion lies. Following recuperation, I will return to the work of political empowerment, millennial civic engagement, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.

"I am grateful to have worked with some incredible colleagues -- men and women of strong conscience and determination to keep California moving forward. My hope is that, in this next chapter of public life, I can help ensure that African-Americans, millennials, and all Angelenos have a strong and vibrant voice in shaping the future of the Golden State."

Ridley-Thomas was considered to be a leading candidate to replace his father County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas when the elder Ridley Thomas terms out in 2020.