Sen. Myron Penn's statement on Johnny Ford running for state Senate District 28

"As always, I am focused on helping the people of my district, both as state senator and as a lawyer. While I am leaning toward spending more time and energy helping people even more with my law firm’s growing practice, I also want to make certain that we continue with the progress we have made---maintaining and bringing jobs to the area, improving schools, and addressing the everyday issues of the people I have had the privilege to serve for the last seven years. It is of the utmost importance to me that we continue this forward momentum and image for senate district 28 and not slip back to the days of politics serving the needs of the politician instead of the needs of the people. Therefore, I will refrain from making a decision on the 2010 elections until I feel comfortable that there will be senate candidates who will share the same vision I have for the future rather than a selfish agenda to turn back to "old-days" politics.

"I take these responsibilities very seriously and would never rush such an important decision. I want the citizens of our community to have a state senator they can be proud of—not just an opportunist who wants to take advantage of an open election. In coming weeks and after much thought and prayer, I feel that I will be prepared to make an announcement regarding my plans for 2010. However, whether as a state senator or an attorney representing the people of my community, I will continue to work tirelessly to improve the lives of the people of District 28 and the State of Alabama."

-- posted by Sebastian Kitchen