By Jillian Farrel -- February 15, 2010
As a result of dissatisfaction over partisanship in Congress, Indiana Senator Evan Bayh will not seek a third term. Bayh said, "there is too much partisanship and not enough progress; too much narrow ideology and not enough practical problem solving."
White House aids tried to persuade Bayh to seek re-election, according to a senior administration official who asked not to be identified.
At a news conference Monday morning, he said, "I love working for the people of Indiana. I love helping our citizens make the most of their lives, but I do not love Congress."
Bayh served two terms as Indiana's Governor before winning his first two Senate terms in 1998. He had, until recently, been considered a sure candidate for re-election.
The two-term Senator's decision came as a shock to Washington officials, but it also paves way for a Republican to take the position. Republicans have viewed Indiana as a prime state to pick up, which could incite talk about the GOP's opportunity to take over the Senate this year.
The Republican party needs a gain of 10 seats in order to win the majority in the Senate.
Bayh, said, it was time for him to "to contribute to society in another way," either by creating jobs with a business, leading a college or university, or running a charity.
The Democrats will have to rush to fill the Senator's seat. Friday is the filing deadline for the May Primary; however, the party will have until June 30 to find a replacement.
