" I will file to become a candidate for the United States Senate in Nebraska."
Former Sen. Bob Kerrey is reversing course and says he'll seek the Democratic nomination for the Nebraska seat he once held.
Kerrey's announcement Wednesday comes just weeks after he publicly rejected a run to replace retiring Democratic Sen. Ben Nelson. It's also just one day before Nebraska's candidate filing deadline.
Statement from Senator Bob Kerrey
Doing things the conventional way has never been my strong suit. This afternoon, I will file to become a candidate for the United States Senate in Nebraska. I came to realize that my previous decision was the easy one, not the right one. My commitment to serve Nebraska and America, and to be part of the debate about the challenges we face was too strong to dismiss. My family supports this decision 100%. I look forward to seeing you in the coming weeks. We have a lot of work to do.
The 1992 presidential candidate and former Nebraska governor previously said not running was in his family's best interest.
Kerrey's announcement gives new hope to national Democrats desperate to stop Republicans from netting four Senate seats this fall and regaining control of the chamber.
But it's also sure to create state party friction. Fellow Democrat Chuck Hassebrook stepped into the race after Kerrey bowed out and gave up a University of Nebraska regent seat he's held for nearly 18 years.
