SPRINGFIELD - State Rep. Dan Brady will not seek the post being vacated by U.S. Rep. Jerry Weller. Brady, a Bloomington Republican, said Monday that he will instead run for re-election to the Illinois House, where he has served since 2001.

"After much discussion with my family, friends, advisors and others, I was left with this huge decision to make in a very short period of time," Brady said. "With as much research and traveling through the 11th district as I could possibly do, I have made my decision not to run for Congress in the 11th district."

Brady was among a large field of potential candidates considering a run for the open seat, which stretches from Chicago's south suburbs to Bloomington-Normal.

On the Democratic side, state Sen. Debbie Halvorson of Crete and Robert Gorman of Frankfort have said they are interested in the position. Illinois State University student Jason Wallace wants to run on the Green Party ticket.

Weller, a Morris Republican who is retiring after serving seven terms in Congress, is supporting New Lenox Mayor Tim Balderman for the GOP nomination. Former White House staffer Marguerite Murer of Chicago and Jason King, of Normal, also have expressed interest in the race.

Balderman, who also is chief of police in Chicago Ridge, said Monday that he intends to make a formal announcement this week. The 41-year-old mayor is a former New Lenox village trustee and school board member.

Brady, who serves on the House Republican leadership team, said one reason for deciding against a bid was the short time frame in the upcoming election season. The primary election was moved from mid-March to Feb. 5 in order for Illinois to have a greater say in the presidential election.

"This exploration has taught me much in a short time and I will not rule out any future elective office. Now though I am seeking re-election as state representative for the 88th district and I look forward to serving," Brady said.