Republican Scott Brown announced on his Facebook page last night, shortly after 9 p.m., that he will not be running for Governor in 2014.
Speculation regarding the former senator’s political career began Sunday when Brown visited Iowa, the first state to vote in the presidential nominating contests. Brown’s Iowa trip was apart of a four-state Midwest tour that allowed him to test his moderate Republican message, boston.com reported.
Brown cited “fulfilling and exhilarating” opportunities he’s pursued in the private sector and an appreciation for time out away from the political scene.
“For the first time in 15 plus years, I have had a Summer to spend with my family,” said Brown on Facebook. “These new opportunities have allowed me to grow personally and professionally.”
Brown also took time to thank the people of the Commonwealth for their patience and support.
Brown had indicated that he intended to make an announcement regarding his decision to run for Governor before Labor Day.
Brown, 53, burst onto the political scene in 2010, winning the seat formally held by the late Democrat Edward M. Kennedy. Last November, Brown lost his bid at re-election to Elizabeth Warren.
After being unseated by Warren, Brown signed on as a contributor with Fox News and joined Nixon Peabody LLC, a law firm in Boson, according to myfoxboston.com.
Despite Brown’s announcement, rumors of Brown possibly running for Senate in New Hampshire, where he owns a house, in 2014 have sprung. Additionally, Brown’s visit to Iowa sparked media speculation that he may be making a bid for the White House in 2016.
According to a poll conducted by FOX 25, which asked viewers Monday which office they would like to see the former Senator run for, 49 percent said Governor, 20 percent said president, 5 percent said U.S. Senator in New Hampshire and 26 percent preferred that he did not run for anything.
With Brown officially out of the Massachusetts race, Charlie Baker, the 2010 Republican nominee, may consider another bid. Brown said he would support Baker if he runs.
Democratic candidates for 2014 are Julitte Kayyem, Donald M. Berwick, Steven Grossman, Daniel Wolf and Joseph Avellone.
