Bayh on Warner

With the news that Gov. Mark Warner pulled out today for a potential race in 2008, it is clear that Sen. Bayh is the winner in this.

Even the Fix reported that Bayh is the winner in this.

The most obvious winner from the Warner news is Indiana Sen. Evan Bayh. Bayh and Warner shared much of the same ideological territory -- moderate, consensus builders elected in red states. After helping Gov. Tim Kaine (D) win the governorship in 2005, Warner became the "it" boy of national politics -- the candidate seen as most likely to emerge as the alternative to New York Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D). Warner's ascent came at the expense of Bayh who found much of the air sucked out of his candidacy.

While I am saddened by Governor Warner's decision, I am hopeful that his supporters decide to join us in our support of Senator Bayh.

The following is a statement from Senator Bayh's office:

U.S. Senator Evan Bayh today released the following statement in response to Governor Warner's announcement that he would not run for President.

"Governor Warner is an exceptional public servant, a great leader, and an influential voice in the Democratic Party. I know how tough a decision that this must have been. Mark Warner has much to contribute to the national debate and I look forward to working with him to make our future everything it can be."