Westmoreland Will Not Run For Governor in 2010

By John Fredericks / Staff

Congressman Lynn Westmoreland, the popular conservative from Georgia’s third district, announced today he has decided to stay in the U.S House of Representatives – and not run for Ga. Governor.

Westmoreland now joins Cobb Chairman Sam Olens and House Speaker Pro-Tem Mark Burkhalter as the latest GOP stalwart to bag the gubernatorial race in the space of one week. Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle pulled out earlier in April.

“It is an honor and a privilege to represent more than 700,000 people in Georgia’s 3rd Congressional District. The last week has given me a chance to think seriously about how I can best serve the people of our state. That process has involved in-depth talks with my wife and children, my longtime supporters and my most trusted friends. I have decided that it is best for me to remain in Congress, where I think I can make a difference as a legislative fighter,” Westmoreland said in a prepared statement.

Westmoreland, who was reportedly receiving thousands of calls from   supporters to get in the governor’s race, acknowledged his decision would make an impact on the dynamics of the GOP race. “While my decision will be good news for some and disappointing to others, I believe it is best for me and my family. Rest assured that I will do everything in my power to support our party’s nominee for governor,” he added.

Westmoreland’s staff is investigating the origin of “robo” calls that were being made to his third district constituents this week, urging them to call his D.C. office and urge him to stay in the U.S. House in lieu of running for governor.

JOHNSON MAY BE NEXT TO RUN

State Senator Eric Johnson of Savannah, currently a candidate for the Republican nomination for Lt. Governor, may now decide to run for governor instead. Johnson said he is “seriously” considering a bid and promises a decision “in the coming week.” Johnson’s entry into to fray would could turn things again, as he is likely to position himself as the principled movement conservative candidate with a powerful legislative record of accomplishments during his senate tenure to back it up.

Sec. of State Karen Handel and Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine are now considered the front-runners for the GOP nomination. Tifton House Rep. Austin Scott is also a candidate.

Read the full update in this Sunday’s Beacon-please subscribe now!