Sandoval Calls It Quits

Just four years after beginning his "lifetime" appointment to the federal bench, Judge Brian Sandoval announced on Friday that he will be resigning effective September 15. His "explanation" was lacking, to say the least:

"It has been a privilege and an honor to serve on the federal bench and I thank my fellow judges, my staff and the entire court family for their support,” Sandoval said in a written statement through the court. “I would also like to thank former President Bush and Senators Reid and Ensign for their support and confidence in giving me the opportunity to serve the federal judiciary."

Huh? Sandoval had a lifetime appointment to a big soft chair on the federal bench and he only lasted four years? We know you black-helicopter types have an alternative explanation for this one.

The RJ speculates that Sandoval intends to run for governor in the upcoming election, and it seems his supporters are very optimistic:

“His reputation is just impeccable, and in politics that is saying a lot,” said Irma Aguirre, a Las Vegas business owner and Republican activist. ...

... “Whenever Brian Sandoval’s name comes up, nothing negative ever seems to surface,” she said.

Uh oh. Running a "try to find something wrong with me" campaign is pretty much the kiss-of-death for republican candidates. Good luck to you Mr. Sandoval, we hope you spend many "lifetimes" at your next job, whatever it may be.

What do you think, commenters? Is he simply clearing his calendar to run for governor, or is there something else going on here?

(LVRJ) Thanks for the tip, A.