Gov. Blunt won’t run for second term

Blunt, who took office in 2004, released a television address today and will discuss the announcement further at a 9:30 a.m. news conference Wednesday.

“The habit of politicians is to remain in office and the desire to prove oneself in the next election is strong,” Blunt said in the address. “After a great deal of thought and prayer, and with the knowledge that we have achieved virtually everything I set out to accomplish, and more, I will not seek a second term in the upcoming election.”

Blunt said he has spent more time away from wife Melanie and son William Branch than he would like, and “we are ready for the next chapter in our lives.”