West Running For Re-Election, Not Senate

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com) – Republican Allen West ended the speculation of a possible U.S. Senate bid Monday afternoon when he announced he is running for reelection to his House seat and bypassing a possible Senate run.

"Over the last several weeks, numerous leaders of the Florida Republican Party, including current and past elected officials, have spoken to me about the race for the United States Senate. Out or respect, I was willing to listen," Rep. West said in a statement.

West had been rumored to be a possible candidate to take on incumbent Democratic Senator Bill Nelson in 2012. Nelson has built up a sizable war chest and is leading in polls over all declared candidates. West said the Senate is not his where his idea of change can be implemented.

"I believe the place where I can best effect the needed change is from the People's House – the House of Representatives," West stated.