Rabbi declines to run in Massachusetts special election

Massachusetts Rabbi Jonah Pesner announced on Friday he will not be pursuing Sen. John Kerry's (D-Mass.) seat in the likely special election coming up this spring, making Rep. Stephen Lynch's (D) intentions the only remaining unknown in the race.

"At this time, I have decided not to run for the United States Senate," Pesner said in a statement sent to supporters.

Pesner said he has met with a number of people urging him to run for the seat over the past few weeks, which he called "among the most exhilarating of my life."

"I met with and was inspired by a diverse cross section of individuals. I listened to business, civic and religious leaders, donors and activists, Democrats and Republicans, and of course, some regular folks who yearn for stronger communities and a thriving nation," he said.

Pesner's decision not to run further clears Rep. Edward Markey's path to the Democratic nomination. He is thus far the only candidate to announce his intentions to run if Kerry is confirmed as secretary of State, as is expected within the next few weeks.

Lynch is still mulling a run, however, and could make that decision soon, but Markey has received the backing of a number of prominent Democrats, including the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, which will make him a difficult candidate for Lynch to beat in a primary.

Former Sen. Scott Brown (R-Mass.) is considered by Republicans in the state to be the most likely GOP candidate for the seat.

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