Breaking: Insiders tell TVNewser that in a production meeting late this afternoon just before the 5pmET edition of Hardball, Chris Matthews told the Hardball team that he would not be running for senate.
Developing…
> More from the NYTimes‘ Bill Carter: Mr. Matthews declined to comment, as did executives from NBC News. But one executive said that discussions with Mr. Matthews for a new contract to remain on “Hardball” were continuing.
> Earlier on TVNewser:
• Feb. 1, 2008: Is Chris Matthews Running for Senate?
• Nov. 26: Matthews Meets with PA Dems About Possible Senate Run
• Nov. 30: Sen. Specter Responds to Possible Chris Matthews Run