State Sen. Mike Bennett Closes Door on U.S. House Run

Stating that the "fire in his belly" was really "heartburn," state Sen. Mike Bennett, R-Bradenton, said he will not seek office in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Bennett filed to run for U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor's 11th Congressional District seat two weeks ago, but has now changed his mind. But Bennett also stated that his political career is not quite over yet.

Here is his statement in full:

Since expressing interest in running for Congress a few weeks ago, my wife, Dee, and I have been traveling the district meeting with supporters and donors. In these conversations, I have been overwhelmed with the outpouring of support and confidence my community has shown me. However, during this time, Dee and I have had many discussions regarding the fire in the belly that is required of running a federal campaign. In all honesty, I quickly realized that the 'fire' I was feeling was heartburn over constant fund-raising, travel and the other demands of running for federal office. Traveling the world and fishing are candidly things I'm looking forward to catching up on when my term in the Florida Senate comes to an end.

Watching all that is going on in Washington and knowing the constant fight that is required to make a difference there, I have decided to no longer pursue my bid for Congress.

Let me be clear. Is this the end of my life in politics? You all know me better than that," Bennett said.