Ashley Judd Won't Run for Senate in 2014

The actress had been widely believed to be considering a run for Sen. Mitch McConnell's seat representing Kentucky

Sen. Ashley Judd? Not anytime soon.

The actress has passed on a much-rumored run for Kentucky Republican Mitch McConnell's Senate seat, she confirmed Wednesday.

Judd, a long-time Democrat and outspoken women's rights advocate, said she won't challenge the Senate Minority Leader in 2014.

"After serious and thorough contemplation, I realize that my responsibilities & energy at this time need to be focused on my family," she tweeted Wednesday.

Even before she had spoken publicly about any plans to run, the GOP had begun gearing up its campaign against her in recent months. An ad by Karl Rove's American Crossroads group painted her as an out-of-touch Hollywood liberal with a thin claim on Kentucky ties.

"I have spoken to so many Kentuckians over these last few months, who expressed their desire for a fighter for the people & new leader," she said on her Twitter account.

"While that won't be me at this time, I will continue to work as hard as I can to ensure the needs of Kentucky families are met by returning this Senate seat to whom it rightfully belongs: the people & their needs, dreams, and great potential. Thanks for even considering me as that person & know how much I love our Commonwealth," she continued.

Judd, the daughter of country singer Naomi Judd and sister of singer Wynonna, grew up in Kentucky and California before launching her successful acting career.

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