Ashley Judd Says She Won't Run for Senate in Kentucky: "Thanks for Even Considering Me"

"I realize that my responsibilities & energy at this time need to be focused on my family," actress tweeted today

By Natalie Finn Mar 27, 2013 10:25 PMTags
Ashley Judd Rick Diamond/Getty Images

Ashley Judd's role as first lady in Olympus Has Fallen remains the closest she plans to get to national politics.

The actress, human rights activist and frequent fixture on the Democratic circuit took to Twitter today to politely let down those who were hoping she might make a run for the U.S. Senate in her native Kentucky. (Technically, she was born in California, but she spent her formative years in the Bluegrass State).

"Dear Friends, Thank you for these months of remarkable support & encouragement, for your voices, exhortations, & prayers. I have decided," Judd, 44, tweeted today

"My full statement will soon be on my website, http://ashleyjudd.com  Please know that is my voice & truth; don't fool with the distortions!" she continued.

"After serious and thorough contemplation, I realize that my responsibilities & energy at this time need to be focused on my family.

"Regretfully, I am currently unable to consider a campaign for the Senate. I have spoken to so many Kentuckians over these last few months who expressed their desire for a fighter for the people & new leader. While that won't be me at this time, I will continue to work as hard as I can to ensure the needs of Kentucky families are met by returning this Senate seat to whom it rightfully belongs: the people & their needs, dreams, and great potential.

"Thanks for even considering me as that person & know how much I love our Commonwealth. Thank you!"

Republicans Mitch McConnell and Rand Paul are the sitting U.S. Senators from Kentucky.

Judd was selected as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention last year, one of three from Williamson County, Tenn., where she makes her home.

The idea of her running for Senate picked up so much steam that GOP strategist Karl Rove went so far as to commission a preemptive attack ad against her prospective candidacy—a gesture Judd's camp wholeheartedly thanked him for.