WASHINGTON _ New Mexico Democratic Sen. Tom Udall announced Monday that he will not seek re-election in 2020.
"I was proud to serve as New Mexico's Attorney General, then in the U.S. House, and now two terms as your senator. I'm confident that we could run a strong campaign next year to earn a third term, because of all the work you and I have done together, along with my wife, Jill, and my incredibly dedicated staff," he said in a statement. "But the worst thing anyone in public office can do is believe the office belongs to them, rather than to the people they represent. That's why I'm announcing today that I won't be seeking re-election next year."
In his announcement, Udall stressed that he would be continuing to work for the remainder of the current term, which is his second in the chamber.
"In fact, I see these next two years as an incredible opportunity. Without the distraction of another campaign, I can get so much more done to help reverse the damage done to our planet, end the scourge of war, and to stop this president's assault on our democracy and our communities," Udall said. "These are three real crises that are happening right now and are threatening the very foundations of our great nation. If we don't do something, it will soon be too late."
.jpg?w=600)
