Tisei Weighing U.S. Senate Run

Former Mass. Senate Republican Leader Richard Tisei says he is considering a run for the U.S. Senate seat recently vacated by John Kerry after the long-time senator was appointed Secretary of State earlier this week.  

“In the coming days, I will be talking with family, friends, and supporters to consider the best role that I can play in helping to bring new, alternative leadership to Washington,” Tisei said in a statement released Friday.

Tisei, who previously ran unsuccessfully for lieutenant governor and Congress, said he was shocked to see Scott Brown announce he would not be running for the seat.

"The news that Scott won't be running again came as a surprise to me, as to many others," Tisei said in the statement. "I've known him for many years and served with him in the state senate. I have great respect for his independence and bi-partisan record in the Senate. His decision not to be a candidate in the special election for the U.S. Senate is a great loss for the Commonwealth."

Two Democrats have already announced their run for the seat: U.S. Congressman Ed Markey (D-Malden), who represents the Fifth Congressional District, along with U.S. Congressman Stephen Lynch (D-South Boston), who represents the Eighth Congressional District. 

The primary election is set for April 30 and the general election will be held on June 25. 

Previously published on Tewksbury Patch:

• TELL US: What Should Scott Brown Do Next?
• Who Will Run for Kerry's Seat if He's Appointed Secretary of Defense?
• Elizabeth Warren Wins U.S. Senate Seat in Massachusetts
• Markey or Lynch: Who Would You Vote for Today?
• Gov. Patrick Names William “Mo” Cowan Interim Senator
• TELL US: Who Should Run For Governor?
• Scott Brown Will Not Run for U.S. Senate

 Scott Brown Will Not Run for U.S. Senate