Former state schools superintendent Tom Luna is no longer considering a run for Congress.
The Associated Press first reported on Luna’s decision Wednesday.
Less than a month ago, Luna said he was “strongly considering” a run for the open seat in Idaho’s 1st Congressional District. In a statement Wednesday, Luna ruled out a run.
“My reason for running for state superintendent of schools was because of my passion for improving our children’s educational opportunities. It started as a school board member in Nampa more than 20 years ago. Since leaving elected office, I have been blessed to work across the country helping millions of students gain access to a quality, rigorous, and relevant curriculum that empowers students and prepares them for the world where they will live and work. At this time, I want to continue to focus on my passion for education versus serving in Congress.”
Luna, a Republican, was elected state superintendent in 2006 and re-elected in 2010. He did not seek re-election in 2014. In November 2012, Idaho voters resoundingly rejected three education overhaul laws Luna advanced during the 2011 legislative session.
Since leaving office, Luna has worked for Project Lead The Way, a nonprofit group that provides curriculum in the STEM disciplines of science, technology, engineering and math.
When incumbent 1st District Rep. Raul Labrador announced his run for governor, Luna quickly announced that he was mulling a run for the open seat.
Former Attorney General and Lt. Gov. David Leroy has already filed to run in the 1st District. He is the only Republican in the race — at least for the time being. The open race is likely to draw a crowded field of candidates.
