“I’m very happy where I am in my life. The decision not to run is based on what’s best for me and the people who matter to me most,” Mr. Fossella said in a phone interview with The Journal.

The 45-year-old Republican from Staten Island had spent weeks deciding whether to try to re-ignite a once-promising political career.

Last week, a group of Staten Island Republicans nominated Mr. Fossella to run for the seat, but national party leaders want him to stay retired. Democrat Michael McMahon was elected in 2008 to represent the district that includes Staten Island and part of Brooklyn, and is running for re-election this year.”I’m very happy where I am in my life. The decision not to run is based on what’s best for me and the people who matter to me most,” Mr. Fossella said in a phone interview with The Journal.

The 45-year-old Republican from Staten Island had spent weeks deciding whether to try to re-ignite a once-promising political career.

Last week, a group of Staten Island Republicans nominated Mr. Fossella to run for the seat, but national party leaders want him to stay retired. Democrat Michael McMahon was elected in 2008 to represent the district that includes Staten Island and part of Brooklyn, and is running for re-election this year.