Big-name Dem dashes party's hopes with massive decision on Senate challenge

Former Louisiana Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards won't run for the U.S. Senate, dashing the hopes of those seeking him to challenge the survivor of a four-way Republican primary.

Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA) is facing a primary challenge from three other GOP candidates.

NOLA.com reported that the former governor had never previously expressed any public interest in running for the seat.

The Baton Rouge Business Report said that people are starting to notice signs around the state urging voters to support Edwards, but these signs don't appear to be affiliated with any actual campaign.

“After giving it careful consideration, we have decided that now is not the right time to re-enter public office,” Edwards said in a statement, NOLA.com said. “After eight years in the Governor’s Office, and with two grandbabies at home, we’re committed to being the best Papa and Nonna we can be.”

“We accomplished so much to rebuild our state because – unlike Washington, DC – we worked with anyone, of any political party, to Put Louisiana First,” Edwards' statement continues. “As a country, the path we’re headed down is troubling, to say the very least. I hope that in next year’s election, the people of Louisiana will reject the extremist politicians that have paralyzed progress in this nation. I’m going to do all I can as a private citizen to advance that cause as best I can.”

Read the full report here.