CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) — Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval says he won't be running for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Harry Reid.
The announcement Tuesday ends speculation that the popular Republican would enter the race and clears the way for other another GOP candidate. Sandoval was widely considered a favorite if he chose to run, but he said in a statement that his heart is in his work as governor.
Former Nevada Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto, a Democrat, announced in April that she would seek the post, and Republican U.S. Rep. Joe Heck has said he's exploring a bid. Republican Las Vegas City Councilman Bob Beers has long said he is in the race.
The 75-year-old Reid, the Senate Democratic leader, announced in March that he wouldn't seek a sixth term.