Graves will not run for US Senate next year

WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Tom Graves (R-GA-14) says he will not run for the U.S. Senate next year.

Graves is one of several current members of the U.S. Houses of Representatives who have been mentioned as possible candidates for the post being given up by Republican Saxby Chambliss.

"The last several weeks have been a very exciting time for me and my family as we considered the opportunity to serve Georgia in the United States Senate," Graves said in a statement issued Monday. "It has been an honor to receive so much support from Georgians and grassroots conservatives around the country, and I am confident that we would run a very competitive campaign. My decision rested on what would be best for my family, my district and the state of Georgia, and I have concluded that the right path for now is to forgo this Senate race and continue serving in my current role.

"After receiving so much encouragement to enter the race, I now know we are at the beginning of a long journey in Georgia state politics. I look forward to taking on a greater leadership role in our congressional delegation as many of our senior members enter the primary, and it is important for my supporters to know that I intend to continue preparing for future opportunities to serve Georgia."