Two-time GOP candidate won’t run in Iowa’s 1st District in 2014

Republican Ben Lange has ended speculation about running for the U.S. House in 2014.

The Independence attorney said today he won't run a third time in Iowa's 1

^st

District.

In a Facebook post, Lange said that despite support for him to run again, he doesn't think the time is right for him.

“With three young daughters who are just beginning soccer, softball, basketball and all the other activities that parents of young children are familiar with, my family and I have decided that I will not be a candidate for United States Congress in Iowa's 1st District in 2014,” Lange posted.

Lange, 34, ran in 2010 and nearly defeated Rep. Bruce Braley, losing by less than 2 percentage points. However, in a rematch in 2012, he lost 57 percent to 42 percent.

Still, Lange believes a Republican can win in 2014. Of course, it's an open seat because Braley is running for the U.S. Senate rather than re-election.

So far, Rod Blum, who Lange defeated in the 2012 GOP primary, and Steve Rathje are running. Iowa House Speaker Kraig Paulsen is expected to join the race this summer.

On the Democratic side, Rep. Pat Murphy of Dubuque and Cedar Rapids City Councilwoman Monica Vernon are seeking the nomination. Iowa Utilities Board member Swati Dandekar, a former Marion legislator, and Cedar Rapids attorney Dave O'Brien also are eyeing the race.

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