Haran drops out of Lake County court clerk race

The Democratic Party nominee for Lake County circuit court clerk dropped out of the race Monday.

In a post on her Facebook page, Cynthia Pruim Haran told followers the decision to withdraw came after "much thought, discussion and prayer."

"By no means was this an easy decision," wrote Haran, of Round Lake. "But, in my heart I know it is the right decision for my family."

Haran later told the Daily Herald the demands of her family outweigh the demands of the campaign.

Haran is married and has three children.

Haran's decision to withdraw leaves Republican Keith Brin alone in the race. Brin, of Highland Park, is the office's chief deputy clerk and an attorney.

Brin defeated Gerald Dietz in March's GOP primary.

"I respect Cynthia's carefully-considered decision and wish her and her family all the best as she focuses on the most important thing in each of our lives: our families," Brin said in a statement released to the media Monday afternoon. "Running for office is a difficult thing, especially in a large county, and this is a reminder of the strain it puts on our loved ones."

Brin went on to thank his wife and their three children for their support and patience during the campaign.

Republican incumbent Sally Coffelt is not seeking re-election.

Democratic Party leaders can appoint a new candidate to run against Brin.

Haran said she spoke to state Sen. Terry Link, the leader of the Lake County Democrats, "on numerous occasions" about her decision.

"While the party did ask that I remain, they have been extremely supportive of my decision," Haran said.

Link couldn't be reached for comment. Pete Couvall, the first vice chair of the Lake County Democrats, said party leaders expect to announce a replacement candidate Wednesday.

Couvall called Haran "an excellent candidate."

"We wish her the best," he said.