July 7, 2008

Senator Jim Webb has taken himself out of the running for the Democratic Vice Presidential candidacy.

In a press release issued Monday, Webb said that he expressed to Senator Obama and Obama's presidential campaign his intent to stay in the U.S. Senate.

Webb has represented Virginia in the U.S. Senate as a Democrat for one-and-a-half years.

Webb said, "Last week I communicated to Senator Obama and his presidential campaign my firm intention to remain in the United States Senate, where I believe I am best equipped to serve the people of Virginia and this country. Under no circumstances will I be a candidate for Vice President."

Webb also remarked that, "I entered elective politics because of my commitment to strengthen America's national security posture, to promote economic fairness, and to increase government accountability. I have worked hard to deliver upon that commitment, and I am convinced that my efforts and talents toward those ends are best served in the Senate."

Governor Tim Kaine released the following statement on Senator Jim Webb's decision to remove himself from consideration for Vice President, saying "While I believe that Senator Jim Webb would have made a great Vice President, it is good news for Virginia that he will continue to represent the Commonwealth in the U.S. Senate. In a very short period of time, Jim has made us proud to call him our Senator."

Senator Webb is still a strong supporter of Obama, however. He said that he will renew his commitment to work hard to make sure Obama wins Virginia and the Presidency. Webb also said he would continue to campaign for the presumptive Democratic nominee.