State Senator Lee Steps Out of Congressional Race | Politics

CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) -- State Sen. John Lee is bowing out of Nevada's congressional race for a newly created seat.

The Democrat from North Las Vegas on Monday said he will instead seek re-election to the state Senate. Lee's departure opens the way for Democratic Senate Majority Leader Steven Horsford, who also has announced his candidacy for Nevada's 4th Congressional District. Lee in a statement says he wants to avoid a bitter primary battle.

Republican state Sen. Barbara Cegavske has said she will seek the GOP nomination for that post.

Democrats have a 13 percentage point advantage in voter registration in the district that also includes a large swath of rural central Nevada where many voters are Republican.