After months of speculation and a barrage of Republican attacks, Ashley Judd has decided not to challenge Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell for Kentucky's Senate seat in 2014. The actress and activist announced on Twitter:
After serious and thorough contemplation, I realize that my responsibilities & energy at this time need to be focused on my family.
— @AshleyJudd via web
Regretfully, I am currently unable to consider a campaign for the Senate. I have spoken to so many Kentuckians over these last few months ~
— @AshleyJudd via web
~ who expressed their desire for a fighter for the people & new leader. While that won't be me at this time, I will continue to work as ~
— @AshleyJudd via web
as hard as I can to ensure the needs of Kentucky families are met by returning this Senate seat to whom it rightfully belongs: the people &
— @AshleyJudd via web
their needs, dreams, and great potential. Thanks for even considering me as that person & know how much I love our Commonwealth. Thank you!
— @AshleyJudd via web
It's a shame she didn't keep the possibility of a run alive for a while longer to keep Republicans spending against her and looking nasty and ridiculous in the process.