[Source](https://www.foxnews.com/politics/dem-drops-us-senate-bid-leaving-independent-candidate-lone-challenger-incumbent-gop-sen-mike-rounds) > Julian Beaudion, the Democratic candidate who was challenging Republican Sen. Mike Rounds of South Dakota, announced he is dropping his election bid, a move that leaves independent candidate Brian Bengs going head-to-head against the incumbent lawmaker. > "As many of you know, we experienced a devastating house fire while continuing to navigate significant personal financial hardship," Beaudion explained in part of a lengthy statement issued Tuesday. "Through it all, my wife, Inkka, and our daughters have shown incredible strength. They have sacrificed more than anyone should ever be asked to sacrifice for a campaign. Today, my first responsibility is to them. > "After the fire, an opponent and those associated with the opponent, hit my family and I with intimidating threats to drop out of this race,' he said in the statement. > "Those attacks were personal and never about politics. The mental and physical safety of my family is my priority and for this reason alone, I step aside. This is a time for my family to heal and for South Dakota voters to choose a Senator. Not a time for me to talk of specific threats and attacks. But rest assured that time will come."