DeGette Takes Name Out of Salazar Replacement Mix

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette of Denver won't be the state's next U.S. senator.

DeGette, who had earlier expressed interest in being appointed to replace Sen. Ken Salazar, withdrew her name from consideration today.

"After serious deliberation and consultation with my family, supporters, and colleagues in Congress, I have concluded I can best serve the citizens of the 1st Congressional District and Colorado from my current leadership positions in the House of Representatives," DeGette said in a written statement.

DeGette is in her seventh term in Washington, DC. She is a chief deputy whip for House Democrats and is vice chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

She had been considered an outside possibility for the seat due to her status as the state's senior member of Congress.

Ritter applauded DeGette's work in the U.S. House of Representatives after her announcement.

“I am proud that Congresswoman Diana DeGette will continue to serve the 1st Congressional District and all of Colorado with distinction," Ritter said. "As the senior member of the Colorado Delegation and a key member of the Congressional Leadership, Rep. DeGette will continue to be a leader in helping Colorado and our nation on issues such as economic stimulus and recovery, health care, climate change, and energy policy."