LEWISTON — U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud, D-Maine, said Thursday night he would not seek the Senate seat to be vacated this year by Republican Sen. Olympia Snowe, who announced Tuesday she would retire after 33 years in Congress.

Michaud was one of three high-profile Democrats considering a run for Snowe’s seat. The others are U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree and former Gov. John Baldacci.

Michaud’s campaign manager, Gregory Olson, announced late Tuesday that Michaud would stay focused on getting re-elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.

“While I have been humbled by all the support and encouragement I have received in the last few days, I’ve decided to not run for the U.S. Senate this year,” Michaud said in a prepared statement.

“I want to continue to represent the wonderful people of Maine’s second district and keep working on the unique issues and challenges we face,” Michaud said. “I am also very proud of what I have been able to accomplish on behalf of Maine’s and America’s veterans and that work must continue.”

He said he was frustrated with the current political atmosphere and believes both sides of Congress have fallen into a partisan rut.

“However, I am proud of being able to work across the aisle to deliver results and I think, for now, I can best continue those efforts in the House,” he said.

Shortly after Michaud’s announcement state Rep. Emily Cain, D-Maine, announced that she was backing Michaud in his bid for the 2nd Congressional District seat. Cain had taken out papers earlier this week to run for the seat. She will now focus on running for the state Senate. 

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