Leo Molloy has announced his withdrawal from the Auckland mayoral race. The controversial hospitality personality released an official statement as follows.
“I’m today announcing the end of my bid to become mayor of Auckland – for now! It’s the right thing to do for the city.
Some aspects of my polling are still strong, however there are clear trends emerging that suggest I cannot win – this time.
On that basis I’m deciding to withdraw immediately and, in doing so, potentially help other candidates - who won’t do as a good a job as I would have – but at least will be better than the dispiriting status quo we’ve had under Phil Goff and this Labour mayoralty.
I wish all the remaining hard-working candidates the very best for the grueling weeks ahead.
Cowboys don’t cry. I’m getting on with my other life as a hospo legend.
I have a new restaurant / bar to design and build, and I’m looking forward to concentrating on that project.
I thank my team for their hard work, and of course my sponsors. We did our best, but it wasn’t quite enough. I won’t be endorsing another mayoral candidate just yet, but I may do so once I scrutinise their policies in more detail. If I do endorse it’ll be a fiscally responsible candidate - not a reckless spender.
Roll on 2025. I’ve learnt some valuable lessons and if there’s an opportunity in three years’ time I’ll be in, boots and all.
To the many battlers in the street, the hard-working, kind, and generous people who backed me, supported me, and even just chatted to me...I thank you, you are the Auckland I love.”
I have no regrets. It was fun, and I thank all who participated."
