Udall will not seek Domenici's seat; Wilson expected to announce candidacy

U.S. Rep. Tom Udall today said he will not seek the U.S. Senate seat held by Pete Domenici. Meanwhile, The Associated Press is reporting that Rep. Heather Wilson will announce her intention to succeed Domenici in the Senate.

Udall, a Santa Fe Democrat, said that remaining in the U.S. House of Representatives is where he can best serve New Mexico.

"The election to replace Sen. Domenici in 2008 will be a tough one but I have every reason to believe I could win it. I also believe, however, that as I continue to gain in seniority in the House, assume more of a leadership role, assert my authority on the Appropriations committee and pass significant legislation like my bill to promote renewable energy, I am in the right place to serve New Mexico and the country.

"As a member of the House I have consistently stood up against the war in Iraq, against infringements on our Constitutional rights, and against favors for the special interests. I believe the House of Representatives, the "people's house," can fix the mess the administration has gotten us into. I want to stay in the House and do just that.

Udall was appointed at the start of the 110th Congress to the House Committee on Appropriations, which is responsible for setting all House expenditure levels for the federal government. His three subcommittee assignments include the Subcommittee on Interior and Environment Appropriations, the Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education and the Subcommittee on Legislative Branch.

Domenici annonced Thursday that he will retire.