Patrick O’Brien, a state transportation official and Army veteran from Adams Village, has withdrawn his candidacy in the race to replace Dorchester City Councillor Frank Baker in the District 3 seat.

In a statement on Tuesday, O’Brien said, “I am suspending my campaign but I am confident and optimistic for the future of D3. I am beyond thankful to my family and friends that supported me in this endeavor.”
He added that his commitment to public service is “as strong as ever and I look forward to being an active part of this neighborhood for years to come.”

O’Brien is a former Beacon Hill aide who has worked for state Sen. Nick Collins of South Boston and former state Sen. Linda Dorcena Forry of Dorchester.

The remaining candidates are: Meetinghouse Hill civic activist Jennifer Johnson; public schoolteacher Joel Richards of Fields Corner; Boston Planning and Development Agency official John FitzGerald of Adams Village; former schoolteacher and State House aide Barry Lawton of Uphams Corner/Savin Hill; labor lawyer Matt Patton of Savin Hill; former nonprofit leader Ann M. Walsh of Lower Mills, and housing activist Rosalind Wornum of Ashmont.

Both FitzGerald and Patton issued statements after O'Brien's withdrawal.

"Pat, your service in this campaign and beyond has made our community a better place," Patton said. "Thank you and I look forward to continuing to work together."

Added FitzGerald: "I have come to know Pat as a hardworking and dedicated public servant who is always fighting to improve his community. While his campaign may be ending, I know his commitment to his community is not, and I look forward to working with him moving forward."