Thompson Confirms He Won't Challenge Feingold

[babylonsister]

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/eyeon2010/2010/04/wisconsin-thompson-confirms-he.html

Thompson Confirms He Won't Challenge Feingold

By Greg Giroux | April 15, 2010 2:12 PM


Tommy Thompson finally said it: He will not challenge Wisconsin Sen. Russ Feingold (D).

"I would love to take this on, but I told my family last night that it's time for new voices and new faces, ladies and gentlemen," Thompson, a former governor, said at a Tea Party rally in Madison.

In a fiery speech, Thompson said he wanted to be a part of the tea party movement as it participates in what he described as "the most important election that any of us has ever faced." He repeatedly blasted President Obama and Feingold, saying their views are "wrong for America and wrong for Wisconsin."

Real estate developer Terrence Wall and businessman Dave Westlake are announced candidates for the Republican nomination but the field is expected to grow.

"Governor Thompson is a legend in Wisconsin politics and I thank him for his honesty and advice as he made this decision," Wall said in a statement after Thursday's announcement. "This is an opportunity for Republicans and Independents to unite and work together to defeat Russ Feingold."

CQ Politics presently rates the Wisconsin Senate race as Safe Democratic. Ratings are subject to change.

[MadBadger]

1. Excellent News

[elocs]

2. Feingold is now "safe", but I think he could have beaten Thompson.

At least now more resources can be put defending seats that are in jeopardy of being lost.

[babylonsister]

3. I'm glad we don't have to find out. nt