Matt Pinnell not running

Posted a few minutes ago on Facebook by Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell:

Lisa and I decided to not run for Governor because we were ready for a new chapter outside politics. While the announced developments in our congressional delegation opened up that conversation again the past few days, it has not changed how we feel about pursuing something new outside of politics. I will not be a candidate for any elected public office this year. Serving the state as Lieutenant Governor has been an incredible honor, and we're excited about a new season in our family's life when my term is finished.

Pinnell is one of those rare politicians that has managed not to diminish his popularity after eight years in office. The usual way to exercise stewardship of political capital is to use it to gain higher office, where greater impact is possible, but there are other ways, and it will be interesting to see what that looks like for Pinnell.