Rep. Luján to Announce Senate Candidacy

Rep. Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., is set to officially announce his candidacy for the Senate on Monday, Roll Call is reporting.

The seat became open when Sen. Tom Udall said Monday he would not seek re-election.

Politico noted it is unclear whether other Democrats would enter the race, but Luján, the assistant House Speaker, would be considered an immediate front-runner to replace Udall.

“These things don’t come around very often and when they do, you need to seriously consider it,” said one person close to Luján. “When it comes down to it, Ben Ray is a policy guy and he sincerely got into Congress and into public service to help the people of New Mexico.”

• Udall's Surprise Exit Leaves New Mexico Senate Race Wide Open
• Rep. Luján New Title Will Be Assistant Speaker