Rep. Hodes will stay in N.H. Senate race

Rep. Paul Hodes (D-N.H.) is staying in New Hampshire’s Senate race, even if Sen. Judd Gregg (R-N.H.) decides to seek reelection.

Gregg said at a press conference announcing the withdrawal of his nomination for Commerce Secretary that he would probably not seek reelection. But before that, Hodes indicated he would take it to the incumbent in 2010.

{mosads}“Sen. Gregg would take us back to the years of George W. Bush rather than moving forward with the change agenda that the American people clearly want,” Hodes said in a statement. “I will continue to work with President Obama to create jobs and rebuild our economy for the middle class.

“I will be a candidate for the United State Senate in 2010. I look forward to working every day to stand up for New Hampshire as we come together to confront the economic crisis facing our nation.”

Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) Chairman Robert Menendez (N.J.) said on Thursday before Gregg’s withdrawal that Hodes was prepared to run for Gregg’s seat whether Gregg ran for reelection or not.

Hodes jumped in the race the day after Gregg’s nomination was announced.