Kerry: ‘I’m out of politics’

Secretary of State John Kerry on Wednesday ruled out another run for the presidency in 2016. 

During a CNN interview, the former senator and presidential candidate said his tenure at the State Department is his last stop in public office. 

{mosads}”I’m out of politics,” he said. “I have no plans whatsoever, this is my last stop.” 

He said he is going to serve out his term under President Obama and move on. 

“I’m going to serve the country in the extraordinarily privileged position the president has given me, the great challenges that I have, and move on,” he said. 

He added: “And I don’t have to comment on, and won’t comment on, anybody contemplating a run for office anywhere.” 

Kerry was the 2004 Democratic nominee for president, losing to incumbent President George W. Bush that year by an Electoral College vote margin of 286 to 252. 

It is unsurprising Kerry would rule out a bid. There has been nearly no speculation about Kerry making another go at the presidency. However, in December former New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson (D) speculated Kerry could be a “big political surprise” by making another run. 

His predecessor at the State Department, Hillary Clinton, is seen as the likely candidate for the Democratic nomination. She said she would make a decision later this year. Vice President Biden has also declined to rule out another run for president. 

Kerry had served in the Senate since 1985 before making the move to the State Department last year. 

—Updated 1:05 p.m.