Statements on Governor Doyle's decision

Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle's friends and foes reacted Monday to the news that he will not seek a third term. Here's a look at what people are saying:

"I know I will regret the decision many times over the coming year. But I am not going to go Brett Favre on you. I am announcing my decision now to allow other candidates to step forward and get going." - Governor Jim Doyle.

"Jim Doyle is a true friend and a tireless public servant. From the Peace Corps to attorney general and then as governor, he has demonstrated a commitment to helping those in need and a passion for fighting for what's right. His tough and fair leadership enabled him to work across the aisle to strengthen education and spur economic recovery. Jim's unwavering dedication and his love for Wisconsin are evident in his 25 years of dedicated service to the state and the people of Wisconsin are lucky to have him as governor." - President Barack Obama.

"Low approval ratings and a budget mess to clean up, on top of embarrassing stories such as an illegal legal counsel and a no-bid train contract likely helped convince Gov. Doyle that Wisconsin voters have had enough of his failed policies." - Republican Party of Wisconsin Chairman Reince Priebus.

"Governor Doyle provided national leadership in support for new energy sources and biofuels. Wisconsin maintained its national reputation for excellence in education at all levels despite difficult budgets. My wish is for Jim Doyle to finish strong, leaving a lasting legacy of public service." - U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

"That is exactly the kind of leadership Wisconsin needs to recover from Governor Doyle's recklessness." - U.S. Rep. Tom Petri, R-Fond Du Lac, in a statement endorsing Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker, a Republican, for governor.

"Governor Doyle shows that he understands how to make government work better for its people, and he is committed to seeing this country treat its young and old with care and dignity. Given his Wisconsin success, Governor Doyle will continue to be a valuable adviser and advocate for national health care reform." - U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen G. Sebelius.

"Anybody can govern during good times; it takes skill, balance and guts to govern in tough times and Jim Doyle has shown all of those attributes." - U.S. Rep. David Obey, D-Wausau.

"I'm sorry to learn that Jim Doyle is not running for re-election. He has been a great governor with many outstanding accomplishments, from championing public education and expanding health care for children, to protecting SeniorCare. He has worked to promote our state's largest industry, agriculture, while attracting new high tech jobs - and nobody has worked harder to protect the Great Lakes. We are indebted to him for his service and wish him well as he continues to finish out his term." - U.S. Sen. Herb Kohl, D-Milwaukee.

"It's bittersweet. The governor's shepherded us through the toughest economic times we've had. The good thing is we're going to have time to work together. There won't be any distractions. There's a lot of important work that needs to get done in the next year and a half." - Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Mike Sheridan, D-Janesville.