Former U.S. Sen. Mark Begich says he will not run for any elected office this year.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Begich says he has felt pressure from Alaskans to run but for now wants to focus on building his consulting business and spend time with his family. He says his public policy work is giving him an opportunity to engage in a different way.
He did not close the door on a possible run in the future.
The two major races in Alaska this year feature U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski and U.S. Rep. Don Young. Both Republicans are seeking re-election.
Begich, a Democrat, lost his 2014 re-election bid to Republican Dan Sullivan during a hotly contested race.
