Federal Way City Councilman Martin Moore announced on Monday he has dropped out of the 30th Legislative District race and is endorsing Republican candidate Teri Hickel.

“Not a day goes by without realizing how grateful and blessed I am to have the amazing opportunity to serve the people of Federal Way,” Moore wrote in a statement. “After much thought, prayers and consultation, I ultimately think that I need to put 100 percent focus on the citizens of Federal Way by continuing to serve on the City Council. I look forward to moving this great city in a positive direction. We have a lot of exciting things happening for Federal Way and it requires commitment.”

Moore — a former Democrat who entered the 30th District state representative race as a Republican — said he initially filed to “ensure there would be a moderate, common sense voice representing us, like my former boss, the late Rep. Roger Freeman.”

Freeman died of colon cancer last October, six days before the general election that he won.

Gov. Jay Inslee appointed Carol Gregory, D-Federal Way, to the vacant Position 2 seat in January.

Hickel, who is the founding executive director of Advancing Leadership, filed for the seat on March 17.

Moore believes Hickel has the ability to bring people together to work toward a common goal.

“She shares my values of a high quality education system, college affordability and a quality state government that is efficient and accountable to its citizens,” Moore added.