Former state Sen. Richard Rosen, a Republican, announced this weekend that he will not seek the GOP nod in Maine’s 2nd District, according to the Bangor Daily News.

Rosen, who now directs the state’s Office of Policy and Management, said in August that he would run for the seat. But in an email to the Bangor Daily News, Rosen said he decided against a congressional bid.

“The opportunity to represent my fellow Mainers in Washington D.C. would be a great and solemn privilege, but I have come to recognize that my preference is to serve the state in a way that allows me to remain close to the people of Maine,”  Rosen wrote.

Rep. Michael H. Michaud, D-Maine, currently holds the 2nd District, but he is running for governor in 2014. Republicans view the district as competitive and have indicated they will try to pick up the open seat. President Barack Obama carried this district with 53 percent in 2012.

Rosen’s exit leaves the GOP field for the seat at three, with former state Senate President Kevin Raye,

, former state Treasurer Bruce Poliquin and tea party activist Blaine Richardson running for the nod.

A recent poll commissioned by Raye’s campaign found Raye leading the GOP field by large margins in this targeted district, which Republicans have not held for two decades.

Three Democrats are also vying for this seat: state Sens. Emily Cain and Troy Jackson, as well as veteran Alden Smith.

Maine’s 2nd District is rated a Democrat Favored contest by Rothenberg Political Report/Roll Call.