Defying mounting retirement rumors, Sen. Thad Cochran (R-Miss.), who turns 70 next month, released a statement this morning saying he will seek a sixth term next year.

“I have decided to seek re-election to the United States Senate,” Cochran said. “While I delayed making this decision until after our state and local government elections were over, there is no reason to delay any longer.”

“I have enjoyed serving in the Senate and I am highly honored to have had the support and encouragement to continue this service from friends throughout the state. “I look forward to working with the other members of our delegation in Washington to keep our country strong and safe and economically sound, and to ensure that our state’s interests are well served by the federal government.”

— John McArdle