Rep. Tim Griffin won’t seek higher Arkansas office in 2014

Republican Rep. Tim Griffin of Arkansas told local news outlet Talk Business on Friday that he will not be challenging Democratic Sen. Mark Pryor, nor does he plan to run as a gubernatorial candidate in 2014.

"I'm not going to run for Senate, and I'm not going to run for governor. I'd like to put those rumors to rest," Griffin told Talk Business.

He continued by highlighting his new appointment to the powerful Ways and Means Committee: "I'm very honored and excited about this opportunity. I look forward to the work we have to do, and I want to be unequivocal that I'll be focused on Ways and Means in the House."

Republicans are eager to challenge Pryor in 2014 and make a strong play for the open gubernatorial seat.