Democratic State Senate District 53 candidate Jack Zibluk has announced he is suspending campaign activities following the recent medical emergency involving his opponent, Republican candidate Lanny Thomas.

In a statement released Tuesday, Zibluk said he is pausing phone banking, canvassing, new campaign videos, and other activities while Thomas recovers from emergency surgery. Zibluk said the decision was made so the community can focus on supporting Thomas during his recovery.

Despite the pause, Zibluk says he will continue with a previously scheduled virtual town hall on Wednesday, March 25. He says the event will provide an opportunity for both Democrats and Republicans to come together to discuss ways to support Thomas and consider how to move forward with the campaign.

Zibluk described Thomas as a good man, dedicated educator, and public servant, and said he looks forward to working with him regardless of the outcome of the April 7 runoff election. Thomas remains in recovery following what his family described as a sudden and unexpected medical emergency.