Mike Pence Won't Run for Senate, Could Have Higher Aspirations
"I am staying for two reasons," he wrote. "First because I have been given the responsibility to shape the Republican comeback as a member of the House Republican Leadership and, second, because I believe Republicans will win back the majority in the House of Representatives in 2010."
Pence was probably the GOP's best chance to flip Bayh's seat, though former Congressman John Hostettler and Gov. Mitch Daniels (who likely won't run) are also considered formidable potential candidates.
House Republican Leader John Boehner hailed Pence's decision, calling it "an unmistakable signal that Republicans are intent on doing everything possible this year to end the Democratic monopoly in Washington, build a lasting majority, and renew the drive for smaller, more accountable government."
But it could also be a signal that Pence, who is well liked by conservative Christians (he begins meetings with a prayer), has larger aspirations. The lawmaker is seen as a potential gubernatorial candidate or even a Republican candidate for president in 2012. His decision to speak at the Southern Republican Leadership Conference in April suggests he may have a run for the White House in mind – the event is a traditional stop for potential presidential candidates.
For now, at least, Pence is stressing his commitment to the House, where he is the third highest-ranking Republican.
"…my duty is here, in the House, serving my constituents and my colleagues as we fight to restore a conservative majority to the Congress of the United States," he wrote on Facebook. "I am not going to leave my post when the fate of the House hangs in the balance. My place is here, in that fight, with the brave men and women who will be winning that victory for the American people."