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 ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, whose appointment to succeed Hillary Rodham Clinton angered some New York Democrats, cleared a major hurdle Friday when a potential primary opponent abandoned a promised challenge.
U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney said Friday she won't take on Gillibrand next year, opting to stay in the House of Representatives, where she has served for nine terms. She said her decision was based on a desire to deal with current challenges including health care reform, clean energy issues and the economy.
"These are unique times with unparalleled challenges and running for the Senate is a full time job," Maloney said in a statement. "Giving up for a critical period of time, the things I do best — passing legislation, working on the issues, serving New Yorkers — would put politics before policy for the next year and a half."
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