Reaction to Bunning's Retirement Announcement
As Senator Bunning announced that he would not seek reelection, the various declared and undeclared candidates reacted.
Gov. Lt. Dan Mongiardo sounds defensive:
from the Rural Democrat via KYWordSmith:
"Our campaign's never been about Jim Bunning; it's about fighting for affordable healthcare, affordable energy, and good jobs for Kentucky's hard-working families. Today's announcement does not change that," U.S. Senate Candidate Dr. Daniel Mongiardo said in response to Bunning's announcement today.
AG Jack Conway said:
from WHAS11 via KYWordsmith:
"Jim Bunning should be thanked for his many years of service in the public arena. I wish him and his family well in the next chapter of their lives. As for the political race in 2010, I look forward to facing whomever the Republican nominee will be next fall. "
But then he sent out an email that suggested that he hated being in the race:
On July 21, 2009, Elizabeth and I celebrated the birth of our daughter, Eva Louise Conway. We are thrilled beyond words and deeply appreciate your thoughts and prayers.
Despite our new personal joy, the 2010 Senate race continues to develop.
On the Republican side, the President of all Secretaries of State Trey Grayson said:
from Bluegrass Politics:
Grayson, 37, said Monday he soon will "transition my exploratory committee to an official campaign committee, but today it is appropriate that we honor the exceptional career of Senator Jim Bunning and take time to thank him for his extraordinary service to our state and nation."
Dr. Rand Paul said:
from Bluegrass Politics:
Paul's campaign manager, David Adams, said the campaign "has nothing but good things to say about Bunning, especially his votes on bailouts." Paul will continue to explore the possibility of entering the race, Adams said.
Cathy Bailey left the door open:
from the Courier-Journal:
Republican Cathy Bailey, a former U.S. ambassador to Latvia, said Monday she is still considering the race.
"Republicans must now look to keeping this seat in very conservative hands," she said.
