State Sen. Brad Hutto of Orangeburg says he’s not running against U.S. Sen. Jim DeMint because he’s happy where he is now.

“That is true, I am not running for Sen. DeMint’s seat,” the Orangeburg Democrat said.

The New York Times recently quoted South Carolina Senate Democratic Caucus political director Phil Bailey as saying Hutto had decided not to challenge DeMint, a Republican. Hutto told The Times and Democrat in April that he was considering a run for DeMint’s seat.

Hutto says he initially considered the move after “a lot of people” asked him to get into the race.

“I went to Washington and talked to people about it,” Hutto said. “It’s just not the right time for me now.

“I’m enjoying serving in the S.C. Senate, along with working in my law practice and being with my family. I’m really happy doing what I’m doing right now.”

The Washington Post reported he met with the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee officials last month to discuss a potential bid.

DeMint still has no Democratic opposition. In April, former South Carolina Democratic Party Chairman Joe Erwin ruled out mounting a campaign against DeMint.

In an op-ed piece earlier this year, Hutto questioned DeMint’s opposition to the federal stimulus package, saying the junior South Carolina senator’s positions are out of sync with the views of most South Carolinians.

“If you need someone to defend the failed economic policies of former President George Bush, schedule Jim DeMint for your show,” Hutto said.

Hutto had also considered a bid for governor before state Sen. Vincent Sheheen, D-Camden, entered the race.

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