Schultz Not Planning to Seek Leadership Role

Sen. Dale Schultz, R-Richfield, said today he will not seek the Senate minority leader position when Republicans caucus tomorrow.

Schultz's hold on the leadership position of the GOP caucus has been tenuous over the past two years as persistent rumors of a coup have swirled amid various complaints of his handling of contentious issues. Republicans lost four seats last night, meaning Dems will hold an 18-15 edge come January and putting Sen. Judy Robson, D-Beloit, in line to replace Schultz as Senate majority leader.
Schultz said in a statement he has enjoyed his two years as majority leader "more than anyone can know."

"I'm deeply humbled and indebted to my Republican colleagues for giving me this opportunity, and I will fully support our new leader whoever he or she might be," Schultz said.

See the statement here.

Schultz won his own re-election contest last night with about 54 percent of the vote.

-- By JR Ross