MADISON, Wis. (AP) – U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan says he won’t run for president next year.

The Republican congressman from Wisconsin issued a statement Monday saying he appreciates supporters urging him to seek the 2012 nomination, but he hasn’t changed his mind about staying out of the race.

Ryan chairs the House Budget Committee and crafted a GOP budget plan this year aimed at slashing federal spending on programs such as Medicare.

The congressman from Janesville says he hopes the GOP will nominate a candidate committed to an agenda that “restores the promise and prosperity of our exceptional nation.”

He added that he’s grateful to his constituents for the chance to advance that effort in Congress.

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