Racicot declines US Senate bid

HELENA (AP) — Former Montana Gov. Marc Racicot says he will not run for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Max Baucus.

The Republican said Monday said he has been discussing the idea with supporters over the past few months, but ultimately decided against running.

Racicot said that he is encouraging U.S. Rep. Steve Daines to run for Montana's first open Senate seat since the 1970s. Racicot said he thinks Daines would "represent Montana exceptionally well."

Daines has said he is considering a race that so far has no announced top-flight candidates.

Several Democrats have already declined runs, including former Gov. Brian Schweitzer. Current Lt. Gov. John Walsh has not ruled out a run, and former Lt. Gov. John Bohlinger said he is also considering a run.