With the news that Senator Jeff Bingaman, D-N.M. is not seeking reelection, the scramble for a Republican nominee has begun. And here’s one name not to consider: former Republican Governor Gary Johnson.
Johnson, who is something of a libertarian sweetheart for his opposition to the drug war and liberalization of immigration laws, flatly denies any interest in the seat. When contacted by The Examiner, Johnson simply said “no” on the idea of running, indicating that he had no desire to be a Senator, whose main job as he put it is to “go to the trough” of the federal government for the state.
Johnson’s refusal comes amid persistent rumors of a 2012 presidential bid. He has so far declined to comment on a Presidential because it could cause him trouble with the FEC over his affiliation with the not for profit Our America Initiative.
