Embattled U.S. Sen. Jim Bunning has announced that he will not seek re-election to a third term in 2010.
His decision ends months of speculation that he would drop out of the Senate race because of his inability to raise money, poor poll numbers and lack of support from top Republican officials.
Needless to say, this race just got a whole lot tougher -- and less fun. However, Democrats will still have a solid shot at this seat as long as the primary between Lt. Gov. Dan Mongiardo and state AG Jack Conway doesn't get too bitter. (Mongiardo hasn't been playing too nicely so far, but it's still early.)
"To win a general election, a candidate has to be able to raise millions of dollars to get the message out to voters," Bunning said in a statement. "Over the past year, some of the leaders of the Republican Party in the Senate have done everything in their power to dry up my fundraising. The simple fact is that I have not raised the funds necessary to run an effective campaign for the U.S. Senate. For this reason, I will not be a candidate for re-election in 2010."
Shorter Bunning: I let McConnell roll me, because I'm a sadsack.
LATER UPDATE: In the comments, trowaman has a pretty good suggestion for Bunning; he should make good on his earlier threat to resign and let Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear select his replacement! What better revenge could there possibly be against McConnell and the NRSC?
