Former Terry challenger explains decision to leave Dems

From the where-are-they-now department:

Jim Esch, who fell to Rep. Lee Terry (R-Neb.) by 10 points in 2006 and four points in 2008, has left party politics behind. And it caused a bit of a stir in the blogosphere among Democratic former supporters.

In an e-mail to supporters, Esch apologizes for disappointing his followers (though he is still backing Democratic Rep. Neil Abercrombie for governor of Hawaii -- the ostensible point of the e-mail).

Of his switch, Esch wrote: "I am sure there are a few of you that are not terribly happy with me. If you are one of those, people, please accept my apology. My decision to become an independent was not meant to be a reflection on those who supported me and worked so hard to get me elected. Instead, it was decision of conscience and the beginning of a long journey to fundamentally change our political system. I don’t believe in the two-party system, and I see no reason to pretend otherwise. There was probably a better way to handle this decision, but the damage is done. However, please know that I am forever grateful for all you did for me. I hope with time you will understand this decision."

Democrats feel they have a stronger candidate in 2010, with state Sen. Tom White. But with President Obama, who won the district and its electoral vote, no longer on the ballot, it could be a tougher race this time around.