The Hill News

Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) on Monday sought to put to rest the idea that he is seeking the Republican presidential nomination.

"I sincerely appreciate the support from those eager to chart a brighter future for the next generation. While humbled by the encouragement, I have not changed my mind, and therefore I am not seeking our party's nomination for president,” Ryan said in a statement released by his office.

Ryan, the chairman of the House Budget Committee, has already denied that he is running for president. However, speculation intensified last week that he was reconsidering due to outspoken Republican supporters in the media.

Speculation mostly came from Republican strategist Karl Rove and The Weekly Standard, a conservative magazine. These sources, along with public encouragement by Republican Govs. Scott Walker (Wis.) and Mitch Daniels (Ind.), stirred up rumors last week that Ryan was seriously reconsidering a bid despite ea! rlier denials. The Weekly Standard indicated that Ryan was frustrated with the current field of candidates.

Despite a denial of the report from Ryan's office on Tuesday, speculation persisted that the congressman was discussing the possibility with top GOPers, leading to Ryan releasing a statement on Monday.

“I remain hopeful that our party will nominate a candidate committed to a pro-growth agenda of reform that restores the promise and prosperity of our exceptional nation,” Ryan said in the statement. "I remain grateful to those I serve in southern Wisconsin for the unique opportunity to advance this effort in Congress."