Sad news...Dorgan Will not seek reelection
AP reporting...
Sen. Byron Dorgan, a 17-year Senate veteran, dropped a late-day bombshell, announcing he will retire when his term ends this year. Dorgan's announcement represents an opportunity for Republicans: North Dakota is a Republican-leaning state, where President Obama got just 45% of the vote last year.
In a statement just released by his office, Dorgan says he wants "to make time for other priorities" after more than 30 years in public life. He insists he's not disillusioned with politics, though he did express dismay over the increasingly partisan tone on Capitol Hill. Here is what Dorgan said in his statement:
This decision does not relate to any dissatisfaction that I have about serving in the Senate. Yes, I wish there was less rancor and more bipartisanship in the U.S. Senate these days. But still, it is a great privilege to serve and I have the utmost respect for all of the men and women with whom I serve.
Website Statement
Is this why? Despite no announced opposition, A December Rasmussen poll showed Hoeven leading Dorgan by an astounding 22 points, 58 percent to 36 percent. Both candidates, according to the poll, held very strong approval ratings within the state.
My guess is the window of us having 60 dem senators has just grown even smaller. In any case, I personally would like to thank Sen Dorgan for his years of service fighting for hard-working families. He will be missed...
SIDE NOTE: Yes I was first, but honestly I don't really care about rec'd diaries, and bob's diary is just fine and dandy, plus he was here first, or something...Getting a diary rec'd or sitting at the cool table at Daily Kos High simply isn't on my current bucket list. Thanks though everyone!