Mayoral candidates halt campaigns because of Boston tragedy

Los Angeles’ mayoral candidates suspended public campaigning Tuesday in the wake of the Boston Marathon bombings that left three people dead and more than 170 wounded, in what President Obama called “an act of terrorism.”

Eric Garcetti canceled a press conference and rival Wendy Greuel did not have any public events scheduled, but decided not to campaign, according to spokespeople for the candidates.

“My thoughts and prayers are with those who were injured in the explosions at the Boston Marathon. My heart, and my deepest condolences go out to the families of those who lost their lives,” Greuel posted on her Facebook page shortly after twin explosions occurred near the marathon’s finish line.

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Garcetti expressed a similar sentiment on his Facebook page: “My thoughts and prayers are with the Boston Marathon victims and thanks to first responders on scene.”

Politicking often comes to a halt at times of national tragedy, most recently during the final days of the 2012 presidential campaign. Obama and GOP nominee Mitt Romney suspended their campaigns and took down television advertising as Superstorm Sandy battered the East Coast.

The respite in the mayoral campaign is unlikely to last long – the candidates are scheduled to debate Wednesday night in front of the Sherman Oaks Homeowners Assn.

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Twitter: @LATSeema