CHESAPEAKE, Va. — A judge on Thursday dismissed two lawsuits challenging the eligibility of one candidate for Chesapeake mayor.
The decision means Chesapeake City Councilman Don Carey will remain on the ballot this November. Carey is challenging incumbent Mayor Rick West.
The lawsuits had called for Carey to resign from the city council in order to run for mayor. After Thursday's rulings, Carey can remain serving on city council as the election progresses.
Carey released a statement on the decision, saying in part: "I'm thrilled we can put these distractions behind us ... Removing me would have left many in our community without a voice in critical decisions that affect their daily lives."