John Sununu (Getty)

Former Republican Sen. John E. Sununu announced Wednesday he will not run for New Hampshire’s open Senate seat in 2010, forcing Republicans to continue their search for a top flight candidate.

“Representing New Hampshire in the United States Senate is a great honor, but effective public service is much more than just a desire to hold office,” Sununu said in a statement.  

“It’s essential that the timing fit both personally and professionally.” He noted the technology firms where he has committed to work and the sacrifice a campaign would place on his family as reasons for not jumping back into politics.  

Despite Sununu’s ouster last fall, by Democrat Jeanne Shaheen, Sununu would have been an important recruit for Republicans, who have yet to field a major candidate in the race.