South Dakota Republican Sen. John Thune announced Tuesday on his campaign website that he will not seek the presidency in 2012.
In the statement co-singed by Thune’s wife Kimberly the couple said the decision “involved lots of prayer” and that Thune is “best positioned” in the Senate.
“I feel that I am best positioned to fight for America’s future here in the trenches of the United States Senate,” Thune said.
Thune had the backing of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell who said earlier this that he was “a big John Thune fan” and “should” run for president.
Thune’s full remarks:
For months now, my wife Kimberley and I have received encouragement from family, friends, colleagues, and supporters from across South Dakota and the country to run for the presidency of the United States. We have appreciated hearing their concerns about where the country is headed and their hopes for a new direction.
During this time, Kimberley and I and our two daughters have given a great deal of thought to how we might best serve South Dakota and our nation. That process has involved lots of prayer.
Along the way, we have been reminded of the importance of being in the arena, of being in the fight. And make no mistake that during this period of fiscal crisis and economic uncertainty there is a fight for the future direction of America. There is a battle to be waged over what kind of country we are going to leave our children and grandchildren and that battle is happening now in Washington, not two years from now. So at this time, I feel that I am best positioned to fight for America’s future here in the trenches of the United States Senate.
I want to thank those who have encouraged us and prayed for us during the past several months. We are forever grateful for all the support.