WASHINGTON _ Sen. Tom Udall announced Wednesday he will not seek New Mexico's governorship, citing the importance of keeping veteran Democratic legislators in Congress.
After much consideration, Udall released a statement explaining why he believes he can do more good in Washington than in Sante Fe.
"While I firmly believe that I have the backing and the experience to properly address all these issues, I have determined, after consulting with my family, colleagues and constituents, that New Mexico will be better served by my remaining in the United States Senate," Udall said.
Udall had intimated last month he was considering a gubernatorial run in 2018, according to the Sante Fe New Mexican. The state's current governor, Republican Susanna Martinez, is term-limited and cannot run again.
Despite his decision to stay in the Senate, Udall expressed dismay with Martinez.
"Under the current governor, our state has fallen behind in education and jobs," he said. "We have failed to take full advantage of our abundant natural resources and our potential for developing a renewable energy industry."
Udall was re-elected in 2014 and currently serves on the powerful Appropriations and Foreign Relations committees, among others.
In his announcement ending the campaign rumors, Udall tried to reinforce the importance of Senate leadership in challenging the incoming Trump administration.
"This is not the time to weaken our position in Washington," he said. "President-elect Trump has proposed policies with respect to health care, constitutional rights, immigration, privatizing public lands, and foreign policy that could be devastating to the citizens of New Mexico."
Candidates considering mounting a gubernatorial campaign include Democratic Rep. Michelle Lujan Grisham, Sante Fe Mayor Javier Gonzalez and Republican Rep. Steve Pearce, the New Mexican reported.
