Rep. Tyler Olson, D-Cedar Rapids, announced he will scale back his campaign for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination as he and his wife work through divorce proceedings.

“I am saddened to announce today that my wife Sarah and I are separating,” Olson said in a statement. This decision was made only after significant discussion and professional support to deal with the issues facing our marriage. We are working through divorce proceedings but remain friends whose No. 1 priority is the happiness and well being of our children.”

Olson said he felt he needed to address the matter given his campaign for the 2014 governor’s race.

The former head of the Iowa Democratic Party said his decision to remain in the race was complicated,” given the needs of his two children and his “core belief Iowans will have greater opportunity with a new perspective in Terrace Hill.”

Currently, Olson is joined by Sen. Jack Hatch, D-Des Moines, Bob Krause, a former legislator, and Paul Dahl in the race for the nomination. Gov. Terry Branstad has yet to officially declare his candidacy for re-election.

Olson said he plans to resume his campaign after the holidays.

– by Brent Griffiths