Democratic U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud and GOP state Senate President Kevin Raye are bowing out of the race to fill the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Republican Olympia Snowe.
Michaud announced interest in running for the Senate just hours after Snowe announced Tuesday she wouldn't be seeking a fourth term, then he closed the door just as quickly. He issued a brief statement Thursday night saying he wants to stay in the House. Raye did likewise Friday morning after previously expressing interest.
Both Michaud and Raye thanked supporters for encouragement.
Snowe cited excessive partisanship as one reason she's not seeking re-election.
Michaud echoed her sentiments. He says he's "frustrated" with how Washington operates and believes both parties have "fallen into a partisan rut."
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