Texas Democrat Kirk Watson, who was considering a run for governor in 2010, has decided instead to seek re-election to the state Senate.

In a statement Friday, he said he enjoys representing the Austin area in the state legislature and wants to spend time with his youngest son, who is about to start high school.

“Despite those reasons, this has been a very tough decision,” Watson said. “It’s hard, in part, because I believe I would win the race for Governor. I’m excited and honored by the significant encouragement I’ve received to run.”