Sen. Linda Garrou not running

Democrat Sen. Linda Garrou, a seven-term incumbent from Winston-Salem, said today she will not run for reelection.

Garrou said she would release a formal announcement tonight or tomorrow.

Garrou, a former budget writer, was drawn into a district with Republican Sen. Pete Brunstetter. She is one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit brought by registered Democrats against  Republican redistricting plans.

Garrou said she could change her mind about running between this afternoon and tomorrow morning. Dome believes she was joking.

Update: She was joking. Here's a quote from her announcement:

"It has been my honor to serve the great people of Winston-Salem,” Garrou said. “I am so grateful for the support and encouragement I’ve received through the years.”