Former Gov. John Bel Edwards on Monday dashed the dreams of Democrats who hoped he would jump into next year's U.S. Senate race.

Edwards said he will stay out of an election where Sen. Bill Cassidy is facing a strong challenge from three other Republicans.

Edwards had never shown any interest in running. But he said he has received numerous entreaties to do so, less than two years after ending his two-term governorship.

“After giving it careful consideration, we have decided that now is not the right time to re-enter public office,” Edwards said in a statement from him and his wife Donna. “After eight years in the Governor’s Office, and with two grandbabies at home, we’re committed to being the best Papa and Nonna we can be.”

The former governor has been practicing law in New Orleans

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