Republican State Senator Mike Delph says he is taking a pass on entering the Senate race to replace Dan Coats.

Delph released a statement this morning saying he was flattered that some of his fellow Hoosiers wanted him to run, but he said running would be too much of a burden on his family.

Here is his statement…

It has been an honor and privilege to serve the people of Indiana State Senate District 29. With the unexpected retirement announcement of United States Senator Dan Coats taking place during a very busy 2015 session of the Indiana General Assembly, my attention was rightfully focused on serving my constituents in the Indiana State Senate. As such, I did not have the ability to appropriately evaluate whether I should consider becoming a candidate. Since session adjourned, at the urging of supporters across the State of Indiana, I have spoken to a number of grassroots activists, GOP donors, friends, family, and neighbors to try to properly assess the 2016 race.

Beth and I have the honor and duty of raising five amazing young ladies. This past Labor Day weekend we had a very in-depth discussion with our daughters regarding the impact a 2016 campaign, and service in Washington, DC, could have on our family. While I have been grateful and humbled by the encouragement, confidence, and support granted to me, it has become increasingly apparent that the burden on my family would be too great for me to enter the open United States Senate race, or any race, in 2016.  My responsibility as a husband and a father trumps the duty and noble calling of public service.

I want to extend a special thanks to United States Senator Dan Coats for the personal time he invested in me as I gathered information to evaluate this effort. I am indeed thankful and grateful I had the chance to learn from such a dedicated and valued public servant. Last and certainly not least, for all of my friends, family, and supporters and well-wishers who offered up prayers and encouragement, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am grateful for your friendship, loyalty, and dedication to civic duty! Be comforted in the knowledge and truth that God still governs in the affairs of men and women in the United States of America.

Delph not entering the race leaves Congressmen Marlin Stutzman and Todd Young, as well former Indiana Republican Party Chairman Eric Holcomb.