Bennett will not run as write-in candidate

Sen. Bob Bennett (R-Utah) will not try to save his job through a write-in bid, multiple media outlets reported Thursday.

Bennett, who was ousted from the Utah GOP primary ballot almost two weeks ago, told reporters that running outside his party would be too divisive for Republicans. 

Most observers recognize a write-in bid would have been a long shot,
but he has been hinting at such a campaign in recent weeks.

Two political newcomers, Mike Lee and Tim Bridgewater, will face off for the Republican nomination in a June 22 primary contest.

A three-term senator, Bennett did not secure enough support from delegates at the Utah GOP convention on May 8 to get onto the ballot. His loss was a stunning defeat for an incumbent, underscoring the anti-Washington attitude among voters this cycle.