George Allen: 'I Have No Intention of Running for Office Again'

A fixture in Virginia politics is hanging up his hat.

George Allen, the former governor and U.S. senator who lives in Mount Vernon, told the Richmond Times-Dispatch on Tuesday, "I have no intention of running for office again."

He said he and his wife Susan put their "heart and soul" into the hard-fought Senate campaign against Democrat Tim Kaine that captured national attention and ultimately resulted in Allen's defeat.

Gov. Bob McDonnell issued a statement later Tuesday saying he was "disappointed" to hear Allen was taking himself out of the political arena. Last week marked Allen's second failed Senate bid; he lost his seat to Democrat Jim Webb in 2006.

"Two big losses in a row make it tough for George Allen to try yet again to make a comeback," said Mark Rozell, a political scientist at George Mason University.

"George Allen ran as strong as (Mitt) Romney in Virginia. Pre-election polls had Allen running behind the top of the ticket. His actual showing was a surprise."

Allen said earlier in an email to supporters he will "continue to advocate the aspirations of families throughout Virginia."

McDonnell asked Virginians to remember what Allen accomplished in his political career.

"I've had the honor of knowing George for two decades now," McDonnell said in a prepared statement. "He is a great friend. And I sincerely hope, as George exits from political life, that all Virginians will remember the incredible service he has given to our Commonwealth."

McDonnell said Allen "will go down in history as one of the most influential and successful governors Virginia has ever known."

McDonnell praised Allen's accomplishments, which he said includes abolishing parole, strengthening academic standards, reforming welfare and overseeing economic expansion across the state.

"We're going to miss George Allen in Virginia politics," McDonnell said. "For two decades he played a leading and pivotal role in making Virginia such a great place to start a business, raise a family and call home. Even though George Allen's political career has ended, I sincerely hope that his contributions to the well-being of the Commonwealth and all our citizens will continue for years to come. I wish George, and his wonderful wife Susan, the very best moving forward, and I congratulate them for years of service, faithfully executed and well done. Virginia is a better place for it."