Westmoreland won’t run for governor

Rep. Lynn Westmoreland will not run for governor of Georgia next year, he said Friday.

In a statement, the Republican said he plans to run for reelection after considering the governors race with his family.

“It is an honor and a privilege to represent more than 700,000 people in Georgia’s 3rd Congressional District. The last week has given me a chance to think seriously about how I can best serve the people of our state,” Westmoreland said in a statement. “That process has involved in-depth talks with my wife and children, my longtime supporters and my most trusted friends. I have decided that it is best for me to remain in Congress, where I think I can make a difference as a legislative fighter.”

When current Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle (R) said earlier this month that he will not run for governor, Westmoreland said he was considering it.

jeremy.jacobs@digital-stage.thehill.com