RALEIGH, (AP) - Former White House Chief of Staff and two-time U.S. Senate candidate Erskine Bowles is passing on a bid for North Carolina governor.

Bowles released a statement Thursday that he doesn't think anyone can question his love for North Carolina but there are many ways to make a difference in the state.

The Charlotte Democrat's decision leaves two fellow Democrats running for governor at the moment since Gov. Beverly Perdue announced last week she would not seek re-election. They are Lt. Gov. Walter Dalton and state Rep. Bill Faison.
Bowles was seen as a strong candidate who could raise money and ad a long resume in the Democratic Party and in public service.