Westmoreland to forgo run for governor

Washington —- U.S. Rep. Lynn Westmoreland, who had briefly been considered a strong contender in the Republican race for governor, is not getting into the race after all.

“I have decided that it is best for me to remain in Congress, where I think I can make a difference as a legislative fighter,” Westmoreland said in a statement Friday. He said his decision came after consideration about what running for governor would mean to him and his family.

“While my decision will be good news for some and disappointing to others, I believe it’s best for me and my family,” he said. “Rest assured that I will do everything in my power to support our party’s nominee for governor.”

A former builder, Westmoreland served for 12 years in the Georgia House before being elected to Congress in January 2005 to represent the state’s third district, which stretches from Atlanta’s southernmost suburbs to the middle of the state.

In Washington, he’s one of the most conservative of Georgia’s Republican delegation.

Westmoreland, who turned 59 earlier this month, first considered getting in the governor’s race in December. His interest —- and the GOP’s in him —- rose substantially after several prominent Republicans, including Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, Cobb County Commission Chairman Sam Olens and U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson —- decided to stay out of the race.