Daley drops Ill. governor’s race

{mosads}“The last six weeks or so have been really tough on me, struggling with this,” he told the Chicago Tribune. “Is this really me? Is this really what I want to spend my next five to nine years doing? And is this the best thing for me to do at this stage of my life? I’ve come to the conclusion that this isn’t the best thing for me.”

Daley said his decision didn’t have to do with his heath concerns or other issues. 

Daley had announced a run in July setting up a primary against Democratic rival and current Gov. Pat Quinn. The filing deadline to enter the 2014 race comes in December, and Daley hinted that other Democrats should enter the race. 

“There’s no doubt in my mind that Pat Quinn will not be the next governor of Illinois,” Daley said. “This governor is not that strong that somebody should fear running against him.”

Daley, who has played supporting roles in various administrations and comes from a political dynasty in the state, said he always believed one day he would enter elected office. But he has since decided not to seek public office again.  

Daley had already raised more than $1 million. He said he is not dropping because he could potentially lose to Quinn. 

“To be honest with you, losing it wasn’t the worst of my fears,” he said. “In many ways, winning it and having the commitment of five years to nine years was something I struggled with. You know, the dog catches the tire and, boom.”