Kentucky state Sen. Dorsey Ridley has decided not to run for retiring 1st District Congressman Ed Whitfield’s seat.
Ridley, who represents the Senate's 4th District, previously seemed bullish on jumping in the race, all but confirming his bid in October. Army veteran Sam Gaskins is the lone Democrat to have declared in the race. Republicans James Comer, Michael Pape and Jason Batts are vying for the Republican nomination.
“I was honored to have been considered as a candidate for the 1st Congressional District, but after much thought and consideration, my family and I felt that it is not the right time in my life to run for this office,” Ridley said, in a news release. “I look forward to continuing my service in the Kentucky State Senate to move our state forward."
Calloway County Democratic Party chair David Ramey was considering a run before Ridley showed interest. Ramey says he's disappointed Ridley has decided not to run and he is still considering his own bid.
"My family and I will continue to discuss various options and we’ll make a decision at the first of the year," Ramey said.
Candidates from major parties have until January 26 to file for next May’s primary.
