Rep. Ellsworth confirms his plans to run for Evan Bayh’s Senate seat

Rep. Brad Ellsworth (D-Ind.) is set to announce has now confirmed his plans to run for Senate, which have been rumored since Thursday, to a local TV station.

Ellsworth’s name rose to the top after Sen. Evan Bayh (D-Ind.) announced his retirement earlier this week. Democratic leaders will officially name their Senate candidate after the May 4 primary, but Ellsworth is the odds-on favorite.

In related news, state Rep. Trent Van Haaften (D) is set to announce he will run for Ellsworth’s seat now that there is an opening. Candidates have until noon Friday to file for Congress.

UPDATE 2:05 p.m.: Ellsworth’s statement follows:

“After many conversations with Hoosiers this week, and with the love and support of my family, I have decided to run for the U.S. Senate.

“The best years of my life are the more than two decades I spent in the local Sheriff’s department. Sheriff is a job that comes down to protecting families from harm, helping folks solve their problems or resolve their disputes, and just being willing to put your fellow citizens’ best interests ahead of your own. When I look at the U.S. Senate these days, I sure think they could use more folks with those same qualities. And that’s something I hope I could bring to the U.S. Senate – an independent voice to help Indiana through these tough economic times, and get things done for everyday folks who are really struggling.”