Ilyse Hogue made the announcement in an email to DNC members on Wednesday. | Getty NARAL chief says she won't run for DNC chair

Ilyse Hogue, the president of the abortion-rights organization NARAL, has decided not to run for chair of the Democratic National Committee.

Hogue, who had been mulling whether to jump into the race, made the announcement in an email to DNC members on Wednesday.


"I wanted to formally write and tell you I will not be seeking election for DNC Chair. I so deeply appreciate those of you who have spent time with me discussing this prospect and explained to me what you are looking for in a leader and I so deeply appreciate your willingness to serve our party at this critical moment," Hogue wrote in the email, obtained by POLITICO. "I am happy that the field of candidates reflects so many capable people and different perspectives within the party and I look forward to continuing to work alongside all of you to make our party and our values grow strength in the coming years."

The announcement comes after Hogue had taken a number of steps signaling strong interest in running for chair. She had sent out emails to DNC members laying out her vision, met with committee members around the country, and even planned to meet with the other declared candidates in the race.

But Hogue also showed some hesitance. She had been invited to meet with a group of executive directors of state Democratic party chairs in early December but declined.

Hogue's decision comes as the field for DNC chair takes shape. Rep. Keith Ellison, Labor Secretary Tom Perez, New Hampshire Democratic Party chairman Ray Buckley, Idaho Democratic Party executive director Sally Boynton Brown, and South Carolina Democratic Party chairman Jaime Harrison are all running. South Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg is also considering running for chair.