Matsui Drops His Race for Senate Nomination

Ending months of indecision, Rep. Robert T. Matsui (D-Sacramento) bowed out of the running Wednesday for California’s 1988 Senate race.

In announcing his decision, the five-term congressman cited his underdog position in the Democratic field of challengers and his increasing workload in the House.

The move strengthens the hand of the presumed front-runner in the primary race, Lt. Gov. Leo T. McCarthy. The primary victor can expect to face Republican incumbent Sen. Pete Wilson.

Matsui declined to endorse McCarthy or any other Democratic contender but said: “The thing I did learn in the last four months going up and down the state of California and talking to Washington people is this is an opportunity seat for the Democrats. I don’t see any strength with the incumbent.”

Whether by design or not, Matsui’s long public flirtation with the Senate race served to keep his name circulating among political professionals and may help him establish an advantage in his next opportunity to climb the political ladder: the 1990 elections for statewide constitutional office. At that time, the offices of governor, lieutenant governor and others are up for election.

“One of these lesser offices is very do-able,” Matsui said at a press conference.

Zschau Consultation

Matsui said he consulted last week with former California Rep. Ed Zschau (R-Los Altos) about the growing demands of serving in the House and about the possibility of running for the U.S. Senate. Zschau gave up his seat last year to make an unsuccessful Senate bid.

“He indicated to me the difficulties involved. He literally had to give up many of his House responsibilities and basically live in California. I just didn’t feel I was able to give that kind of commitment with my responsibilities on the Ways and Means Committee,” Matsui said.

In addition to McCarthy, Secretary of State March Fong Eu has entered the Democratic primary, although she is now pulling back somewhat. Another possible contender is Los Angeles television commentator Bill Press.