There has been some buzz surrounding a movement to get Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) into the 2012 presidential race, but today he released a statement foreclosing that possibility:
I sincerely appreciate the support from those eager to chart a brighter future for the next generation. While humbled by the encouragement, I have not changed my mind, and therefore I am not seeking our party’s nomination for President.
I remain hopeful that our party will nominate a candidate committed to a pro-growth agenda of reform that restores the promise and prosperity of our exceptional nation. I remain grateful to those I serve in Southern Wisconsin for the unique opportunity to advance this effort in Congress.
A recent Weekly Standard report made it clear Ryan was giving the matter serious consideration:
Wisconsin congressman Paul Ryan is strongly considering a run for president. Ryan, who has been quietly meeting with political strategists to discuss a bid over the past three months, is on vacation in Colorado discussing a prospective run with his family. Ryan’s concerns about the effects of a presidential campaign – and perhaps a presidency – on his family have been his primary focus as he thinks through his political future.
In public statements, Ryan has always said he wasn’t running, and he apparently decided not to reconsider that decision. Hopefully the 2012 candidates are smart enough to keep him on speed-dial. He’s the lifeline you want to call during the final round of Who Wants to Be a Trillionaire.
