Bayh: ‘It Was an Honor to Be Considered’

Indiana Sen. Evan Bayh (D) was quick Saturday to take news of his non-selection as Barack Obama’s running mate with a smile, issuing a statement saluting Sen. Joe Biden (D-Del.) instead.

Bayh was a strong supporter of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-N.Y.) during the Democratic presidential primary, but shied away from criticism of Obama. That, and his moderate reputation and potential appeal to crossover conservative voters, had propelled him onto Obama’s short list in recent weeks.

“Joe Biden is an outstanding public servant with deep experience and a fighting spirit. These qualities will make him a great asset in the White House and on the campaign trail this fall,” Bayh said.

The Indiana senator added that “it was an honor to be considered, and I hope it reflects well on the state of Indiana that a Hoosier was in the running. I am proud to serve in the United States Senate and will continue to work each day to make a difference in the lives of the people of my state.”

– J. Taylor Rushing