Former Colorado Springs City Councilman Tom Gallagher is bowing out of the race to get his position back.

Gallagher told his supporters to back another candidate, Keith King, in the April election. Gallagher said the decision to withdraw comes after discussions with family and supporters.

"We came to the conclusion to achieve my objectives I didn't necessarily have to win the city council race," said Gallagher.

King is a former state House majority leader and senator in Colorado. He's in a crowded race for the district 3 council seat with current councilwoman Brandy Williams, former El Paso County Commissioner Jim Bensberg and anti-fracking activist Bob Kinsey.

Election day is April 3 even though it's an all mail-in election.