Republican Richard Tisei, a former minority leader in the Massachusetts state senate and a candidate for U.S. House in 2012, said in a statement Saturday that he will not run in the state’s special election to fill the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Secretary of State John Kerry.
Tisei, who lost a tight congressional race to Rep. John Tierney (D-MA) in November, said in the statement that the timing is “simply not right” for him to launch a bid in the special election — leaving the GOP field wide open in light of former Sen. Scott Brown’s decision to also take a pass on a run.
“I’ve been humbled by so many people who’ve urged me to run for this seat, following Senator Scott Brown’s decision not to run on Friday. I believe it’s imperative that the Republican party put forward a strong candidate who can help bring much-needed change to Washington. Unfortunately, the timing is simply not right for me to do so – deeply as I feel about the need to strongly compete in this election. It was also my desire to make this decision as quickly as possible so that other potential candidates would be able to consider whether they should run.
We have many talented people from all walks of life who should get involved in the political system to bring about change. The political class ought not be a select few. That’s part of the reason that we’re in such a mess and that our political system has become dysfunctional. I urge principled, qualified men and women to stand up and be counted in the political arena. We have no right to complain if we’re not willing to be constructively involved as we try to build a better future. I’ve met thousands and thousands of people who do care and have been involved and I urge them to stay involved and to continue to make a difference – especially in these difficult times.I look forward to continuing my involvement and to supporting strong, principled, independent-minded candidates who may choose to run for this and other offices. All of us – Republicans, Independents, and Democrats – need to roll up our sleeves, pitch in, and bring about the reforms of our political system that are so desperately needed. Whether as a candidate or concerned citizen, I will continue to be involved with other men and women of integrity who share my desire for real reforms.”
