August 7, 2018 -- Two slow-growth council hopefuls who had been intent on mounting a stiff challenge against Santa Monica incumbents have decided not to enter the race for three open seats.
Citing the uncertainty surrounding a voting rights lawsuit that could impact the November 6 election, Armen Melkonians said he and his running mate Kate Bransfield will not submit the nominating petitions they pulled last month.
Read More: http://surfsantamonica.com/ssm_site/the_lookout/news/News-2018/August-2018/08_07_2018_Two_Slow_Growth_Challengers_No_Longer_Council_Hopefuls.html
AND
http://www.smdp.com/challengers-drop-out-as-districting-trial-looms-over-election/168271