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Rep. Lynch: I am not interested in serving as mayor

BOSTON (MyFoxBoston.com) -- Rep. Stephen Lynch says he will not be a candidate in Boston's mayoral election.

The Democratic congressman from South Boston released a statement one day after Boston Mayor Tom Menino announced he would not seek a sixth term.

"Many people have asked me over the past two days whether I would consider running for Mayor of Boston," says Rep. Lynch. "While I thank them for their encouraging words, I want to be clear: I am not interested in running for Mayor. I am not interested in serving as Mayor. I will not be a candidate for Mayor. I am running for the United States Senate. Thank you."

After Mayor Menino made his announcement on Thursday, some began wondering whether or not Rep. Lynch would run for mayor if he were to lose the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate to Rep. Ed Markey. Outside Faneuil Hall Thursday, FOX 25's Sharman Sacchetti asked the congressman if he'd run for mayor if he lost to his Democratic rival.

"I'm going to win the primary," Lynch responded.

Boston City Councilor John Connolly, businessman Charles Clemons, and former City Council candidate Will Dorcena have announced their candidacy for mayor. Several others have also expressed interest in being Mayor Menino's successor.

To see a list of other potential mayoral candidates, click here.