Exclusive: Haley Says She Won't Seek Senate Seat in 2014

While speculation mounts about who Gov. Nikki Haley will tap to fill outgoing Sen. Jim DeMint's spot in the Senate, Haley has removed herself from consideration. What she had not done previously was rule herself out of the race in 2014 that will result from Haley's appointment.

Haley's spokesperson Rob Godfrey, told Patch Friday that Haley will not run for Senate in 2014. "She loves the job she has," he said.

The fact that Haley will not run for 2014 may provide insight to the choice she will make in the short-term to replace DeMint.

Haley has already ruled out some contenders for the immediate opening — both serious, like herself, and not so serious, like Stephen Colbert. The lead candidates at the moment appear to be Rep. Tim Scott or a so-called "place-holder" Henry McMaster.

If Haley will not be facing her appointee in 2014 it may indicate that she is leaning toward Scott, who would be a difficult opponent for any South Carolina Republican, Haley included.

Haley's decision also would seem to all but confirm she'll seek re-election as governor.

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