Posted on 09/30/2005 1:34:41 PM PDT by mdwakeup
North Dakota governor not running for U.S. Senate
The Associated Press BISMARCK, N.D. Gov. John Hoeven said Friday he will not challenge U.S. Sen. Kent Conrad next year, depriving Republicans of someone they considered their strongest candidate against the Democratic incumbent. "A day may come when we ask the people of North Dakota to allow us to serve them in a different capacity, but that time is not now," Hoeven said Friday in a brief statement issued by his office. "The outpouring of support and encouragement I have received to run for the United States Senate is truly humbling, but as I have said, repeatedly, I am focused squarely on the job of governor," Hoeven said. The governor could not be reached immediately for further comment. Republicans have been attempting to push Hoeven into a race against Conrad, who is seeking re-election in 2006. Conrad was first elected to the Senate in 1986, upsetting Republican Mark Andrews. Since Conrad's victory, North Dakota's congressional delegation has been entirely Democratic.
September 30, 2005 04:19 PM EST
We needed Hoeven. As it stands right now (very early to be sure), the GOP is likely to lose a seat or two in the Senate mid-terms.
That will make confirming judges and passing other legislation much, much more difficult.
Crap. Crap crap crap crap crap.
No i doubt we lose any..worst case is a push...we lose a couple and take a couple....but this one hurts cause we just throw ND away
Hoeven Can Wait.
That's the problem, ain't it?
He can afford to wait for the most opportune time.
That's too bad. Are there any other good potential candidates up there?
"Hoeven help us!"
"Hoeven can wait."
oof da!
Liddy Dole strikes out again. What a disaster as NRSC chairman!
Liddy Dole strikes out again. What a disaster as NRSC chairman!
I just knew I wouldn't be able to make in in time to use that line.
Now he will wait until Dorgan retires.
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