Below is a statement by Senator John Kerry on today’s announcement by Tom Vilsack:

“Tom and Christie should be very proud of the contribution they’ve made and will continue to make to the national debate and to the Democratic Party. From day one Tom ran a campaign that helped put Iraq and energy independence front and center. It’s no surprise that Tom emerged early as a powerful ‘ideas candidate’, which is exactly what he did as a governor leading on big ideas and pushing the curve of innovation. They’re great leaders, great activists, and great friends. Teresa and I congratulate Tom and his family, and know he will continue to fight for big ideas that work for all Americans, in 2008 and in the years to come.”