DES MOINES, Iowa — Des Moines School Board Chair Jackie Norris has announced she’s dropping out of the Democratic primary race for US Senate.

In a statement released Thursday morning, Norris cited the district’s recent issues with its former superintendent Ian Roberts, as one of her reasons. She said more of her focus is needed on her role with DMPS.

Roberts was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in September. He was first placed on paid leave by the board, then unpaid leave, and later he resigned his position. In early October, Roberts was charged in federal court with being in the country illegally and being in possession of firearms.

The district has faced scrutiny over the hiring of Roberts and has launched a lawsuit against the consulting firm that handled the search for a new superintendent, JG Consulting.

Read Norris’ entire statement below:

“After thoughtful consideration, I have decided that I will no longer be a candidate for the US Senate in the Democratic primary.

The most important thing to me is that Iowa elects a Democratic U.S. Senator who will put Iowans, and our state, first. Because in this moment we need a voice in Washington who will serve as a check on this President, and is focused on delivering for our families.

The recent Des Moines Public Schools Superintendent crisis demanded my full attention as Board Chair and, overnight, put the School Board, our community, and me personally in the crosshairs of vicious and coordinated attacks. Those realities took time and oxygen away from the work I set out to do: stand up for our kids and families — and the backbone of our communities, their educators and caregivers.

As Chair of the School Board, we stepped up and are bringing accountability—leading with grace, transparency, and resolve. To that end, it’s clear I need to focus on the work at hand: leading the board through this transition, working to support the passage of the Reimagining Education bond, and fully participating in ongoing investigations to get the answers our community deserves.

I am deeply grateful to all of the supporters and friends who have been steadfast in their support. I will keep fighting for a better politics. I believe people will trust government again when politicians put people over a party label and get things done. I leave this race with my head high, and I’ll continue serving my community and doing everything I can to help Democrats win this seat.”

Jackie Norris