Gomez declines rematch against Markey

Massachusetts Republican Gabriel Gomez announced Thursday he will not launch a rematch against Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) this year.

In a statement to supporters via Facebook, Gomez didn’t rule out a future bid and said he’d been “humbled” by the calls from supporters to run again but added he plans to launch a new business instead.

{mosads}“As the New Year begins and after much thought, I have decided not to seek elected office this fall,” he said. “Instead, I’m excited to return to the private sector with the launch of a new business venture alongside a few close friends.”

Gomez said it wasn’t a hard choice to make because he’s “not a professional politician” but added he’s open to running for office again.

“Should there be an opportunity down the line to serve the people of Massachusetts, I remain open to running once again in the years to come,” he said.

Gomez lost to Markey by 10 points during a June 2013 special election held to replace Secretary of State John Kerry (D).

The political newcomer received little help from GOP outside groups, who saw a special election in a state President Obama won with more than 60 percent of the vote as largely a lost cause.

Democrats outspent Gomez 3-to-1 in the race, and Markey received help from a number of Democratic outside groups and heavy-hitters, including Vice President Biden, former President Clinton and President Obama, all of who visited the state on his behalf.

Still, after his loss, National Republican Senatorial Committee Chairman Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) indicated in a statement the GOP was hoping for him to run again.

“Today marks the end of the first mile in the marathon to permanently fill the Massachusetts Senate seat,” Moran said. “Gomez is well-prepared to win that marathon over the next 16 months.”

Gomez had also been considered a potential contender for lieutenant governor. The National Republican Congressional Committee had also been interested in Gomez running against Rep. Bill Keating (D-Mass.). 

Markey faces no significant opposition and is expected to easily win reelection to a full term.