Udall won't seek third term

Two-term U.S. Sen. Tom Udall, D-New Mexico, announced Monday morning he will not seek re-election to a third term in 2020.

"I'm confident that we could run a strong campaign next year to earn a third term, because of all the work you and I have done together, along with my wife, Jill, and my incredibly dedicated staff," Udall said in a statement.

"But the worst thing anyone in public office can do is believe the office belongs to them, rather than to the people they represent. That's why I'm announcing today that I won't be seeking re-election next year," he added.

The senator said he is by no means retiring and is seeking new says "to serve New Mexico and our country after I finish this term."

He said he sees his two remaining years as an opportunity.

"Without the distraction of another campaign, I can get so much more done to help reverse the damage done to our planet, end the scourge of war, and to stop this president's assault on our democracy and our communities," he said.

Udall said he will get to work immediately on "three real crises that are happening right now" — the threat of climate change, the need to expand clean energy and to protect our public lands and forests.

"I love New Mexico, and because I'm so honored to have your trust to represent you in the Senate, leaving this job was not an easy decision to make," Udall said. "But that day is almost two years off. And, until then, I'm going to make the most out of each and every hour I have left as your senator. I'm absolutely committed to changing the course that this president has set for our country."