It's official. The one guy that apparently 75% of the Republicans were hoping would run for the Congressional seat being vacated by Tom Allen,  has officially said no.  Steve Abbott, the Chief of Staff and architect of Senator Collins election and reelection campaigns -- will be staying on board with Collins for the 2008 election cycle.

Mr. Abbott was kind enough to send along the recording of the call, where he made his official announcement.

Steve: "Good morning, Senator"

Senator Collins:  "Good Morning, Steve. I just finished reading S-13456738472 on the Littoral Combat Ship program and it is so exciting --- all three thousand pages!"

Steve: "Huh... that's great, Senator. Anyway -- sorry to call you so early but I wanted to let you know that I am seriously considering a run for Tom Allen's seat in the first district"

Senator Collins: "Steve -- can you call the press office right away? I see here on page 933  that there may be an  opportunity for us to have the Chief Naval Officer come to Maine and do a tour on the advancements at the yard and how that will aid in the construction of the forthcoming state-of-the-art DDG-1000s" 

Steve: "Senator?"

Senator Collins:  "Yes, Steve?"

Steve: "About my previous comments.....you know -- me ----running for Congress?"

Senator Collins: "Do you think Olympia finished reading that report yet?  You don't think she has already scheduled the CNO do you?  I'll bet she has?  Is it too early to call his office?  Maybe we could courier over a letter from me right now inviting him - just sign my name."

Steve: "Huh?"

Senator Collins:  "Oh, sorry Steve.  Yes-I know what you are going to say-we need to schedule at least two fundraisers that day as well!  What would I do without you, Steve.  I literally just can't imagine it."

Steve:  "Ok then, I will talk to you later, after we have arranged the visit.  Thanks"

Senator Collins:  "No, Steve, thank you."