Breaking: Senator Webb Won't Run Again

Democratic Virginia Senator Jim Webb, who helped make inroads in swing territory, will not seek re-election.  It's disappointing news for Demcorats, who are seeing many retirements of potential 2012 contenders.

Ben Smith at Politico broke the news, writing:

Webb appeared likely to face a rematch with former Senator George Allen, whom he beat in a bruising 2012 contest. He had expressed ambivalence about the prospect of another run, and has said he never planned a life in politics. 

Senate Democratic leaders view Democratic National Committee Chairman Tim Kaine, the former Virginia governor, as a top prospect to replace him, despite Kaine's disavowals that he's looking at the race."

 Meanwhile, here's Atrios on why Webb's decision makes sense on a certain level: because being a Senator is not necessarily conducive to happiness.:

""To actually enjoy the job you have to get some enjoyment out of the semi-corrupt aspects of the job such as the fundraising, hanging out with lobbyists, the general thrill of everyone kissing your ass, etc."