KAUKAUNA — Challenger Dan Schafer has announced he was withdrawing from Kaukauna’s mayoral race.
He was challenging Incumbent Mayor Tony Penterman.
Schafer posted the following statement Monday evening on social media:
“I want to thank all of you who supported me and believed in change for Kaukauna. I cannot begin to express how grateful I am.
From the beginning of this campaign, I said transparency would be the foundation of my platform. I believe it is something our community has not had in a long time. It is with a heavy heart that I am announcing I am stepping down from this campaign.
Politics has changed over the years. Campaigns and those running for office have been treated very differently as time has gone on. There was once a time when politics included dignity, integrity, and respect. Unfortunately, much of that seems to be missing today.
Over the course of this campaign, there has been a significant amount of hate and anger directed toward me. There have also been individuals who have not respected personal boundaries and have expected me to agree with their demands. I have never been someone who simply says “yes” because it is what someone wants. I say “yes” only when I believe it is in the best interest of the community.
Unfortunately, this situation has taken a toll on both me and my family. After many conversations with my family and close friends, I have made the difficult decision to step down.
Thank you again to everyone who supported me and who believes our community deserves positive change.
If you have a yard sign, there is no need to return it.
Anyone that has donate to my campain, will be sending all funds back out to everyone.
Best wishes,
Dan
