Sen. Jim Webb Won't Run in 2012
Posted by Erin McPike | Email This | Permalink | Email Author
Virginia Democratic Senator Jim Webb announced Wednesday that he will not run for a second term in 2012.
In a statement, Webb said, "After much thought and consideration I have decided to return to the private sector, where I have spent most of my professional life, and will not seek re-election in 2012."
Webb entered the 2006 race late in the cycle, and his victory was sealed by a combination of gaffes on the part of his GOP opponent, then-Sen. George Allen, and a hefty lift by the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, then led by New York Sen. Charles Schumer.
The National Republican Senatorial Committee rejoiced at the news, pointing out that Webb's retirement makes the GOP's chances at a pickup opportunity in Virginia much easier.
"While there is no doubt Republicans will field a strong leader as our nominee, Democrats will have great difficulty finding an electable candidate for this open seat as Virginians continue to reject their agenda of higher taxes and reckless spending," said NRSC spokesman Brian Walsh.
"We can only hope that Democrats succeed in recruiting President Obama's number one cheerleader in Washington - Tim Kaine," he added.
Kaine, the chairman of the Democratic National Committee and one of President Obama's top three choices for vice president in 2008, may be a contender for the seat. Former Democratic Rep. Tom Perriello, a favorite of the Obama administration for his votes in favor of big-ticket items on their agenda, is also a possible Democratic candidate.
Webb has not been a prolific fundraiser in the past, and since the DSCC's help in 2006 only yielded one term for a Democrat, the party may look to get a stronger fundraiser into the race for the coming cycle.
Republicans already face a primary between Allen, who is trying to make a political comeback, and Jamie Radtke, a tea party leader. GOP sources expect more candidates to enter the race.
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