Darr Ends Congressional Bid

Just 17 days after announcing his candidacy, Arkansas Lt. Governor Mark Darr has ended his bid for the Republican nomination to U.S. Congress.

Little Rock-based magazine Talk Business Arkansas reported the news Thursday morning.

A statement released to the magazine from Darr’s campaign read:

“After careful thought and deliberation, I will not be seeking the Fourth District position in the United States Congress.

I feel that my priority needs to be focused on my family and sometimes trying to achieve titles gets in the way of that.

I look forward to serving out my current term as Lt. Governor and helping my friends get elected or re-elected should they desire my assistance.”

Late last week, Darr filed an ethics complaint against himself over campaign funds spent at gas stations and restaurants shortly after he took office that were classified as fundraising expenses.