OR-Sen: DeFazio Out

Rep. Pete DeFazio (D-Oregon) will not run for Senate;

"I just did not feel that becoming a junior member of the Senate was going to allow me to serve as well and as effectively, particularly in the short term, as my current position,"

Attorney Steve Novick has already announced he is running, and Rep. Earl Blumenauer of Portland may take a stab at Gordon Smith next year.

DeFazio was considered the strongest challenger to Smith, having led in already released polls.

DeFazio's decision will prevent the DCCC from having to protect his Southern Oregon seat.