Price Skips Senate Race

Congressman Tom Price (R-6) announced today he will not run for the open senate seat left vacant by Senator Saxby Chambliss’ exit at the end of this year.

“As Vice-Chairman of the House Budget Committee and as a member of the Ways and Means Committee, at this point my focus must be on the urgent policy issues and the privilege I have been given of being in a position to effect positive change,” Price said in a press release today. “As of today, it is my intention to offer myself for re-election to represent the citizens of the 6th District of Georgia in the U. S. House of Representatives in 2014. I look forward to continuing the battle to preserve fundamental principles that allowed us to become the greatest nation in the world.”

Following Chambliss’ announcement not to run in 2014, Price’s name seemed the first to fly in the storm of speculation of senate hopefuls. Rep Paul Broun and Phil Gingrey have officially announced their bids for the seat. Other names in the mix include Former Georgia Secretary of State and Gubernatorial Candidate Karen Handel. Previously, the buzz was that Handel was waiting for Price to make his decision, where she would make a senate bid if Price decides not to run. In light of today’s news, pundits will expect an announcement from Handel in the days to come. First District’s Jack Kingston (R) is also considering making a bid. According to an Eric Erikson tweet today, on the other side of the aisle Democrat Michelle Nunn is expected to make an official announcement for a senate run next week, ahead of the GOP’s State Convention in Athens. Stay tuned!