Chris Matthews won't run for Senate

The MSNBC host flirted with the idea of a campaign in his home state, but ultimately decided against it.

Published January 8, 2009 6:15PM (EST)

Rest easy, Pennsylvanians -- Chris Matthews won't be your next senator after all.

The MSNBC host had explored the idea of running as a Democrat against incumbent Republican Sen. Arlen Specter in 2010, and had even met with state party leaders and attended politically important events, but ultimately decided against a campaign. Matthews told his staff of his decision on Wednesday night, the New York Times reports.

Some people within the network had previously speculated that his public flirtation with the idea was really just a ploy in contract negotiations. And, in fact, his position is now better than it was -- but he'll still ultimately make less than in-house rival Keith Olbermann, which probably smarts a bit.


By Alex Koppelman

Alex Koppelman is a staff writer for Salon.

MORE FROM Alex Koppelman


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