He cites his family, but pundits are circling around bad poll numbers and faltering fundraising.

"It is with great regret I announce today that I am withdrawing from the race for governor of California,” Newsom said in a statement. “With a young family and responsibilities at City Hall, I have found it impossible to commit the time required to complete this effort the way it needs to — and should be — done. This is not an easy decision. But it is one made with the best intentions for my wife, my daughter, the residents of the city and county of San Francisco, and California Democrats."

Newsom was the only announced candidate in the Democratic race for governor. Jerry Brown is still, technically, at the exploratory committee stage. Meanwhile, Antonio Villaraigosa is slogging along on his second term. Mayor Sam's Sister City blog is getting credit for posting the Newsom scoop first. LA Times, Sacramento Bee, SF Chronicle

Newsom's full email, and Brown's statement, after the jump.

Semi-related: Villaraigosa's second term, his vow to build the subway in ten years and the pressure he's under to get LAPD chief selection right all come into play in today's LA Observed on KCRW segment. It airs at 4:44 p.m. on KCRW (89.9 FM) and will be online at the link.

Email from Newsom:

It is with great regret I announce today that I am withdrawing from the race for governor of California. With a young family and responsibilities at city hall, I have found it impossible to commit the time required to complete this effort the way it needs to — and should be — done.

This is not an easy decision. But it is one made with the best intentions for my wife, my daughter, the residents of the city and county of San Francisco, and California Democrats.

When I embarked on this campaign in April, my goal was to engage thousands and thousands of Californians dedicated to reforming our broken system and bringing change to Sacramento.

I would like to thank those supporters, volunteers, and donors who have worked so hard on my behalf. I have been humbled by their support and am indebted to their efforts. They represent the spirit of change and determination essential to putting California back on the right track.

I will continue to fight for change and the causes and issues for which I care deeply — universal health care, a cleaner environment, and a green economy for our families, better education for our children, and, of course, equal rights under the law for all citizens.

* Statement from Brown: "Mayor Newsom is a talented public official and I believe he has a bright future. I am sure this was not an easy decision. Anne and I wish Gavin and his family all the best."