LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm issued the following statement on the announcement by Lt. Governor John D. Cherry, Jr., that he will not be a candidate for governor in 2010.

"I share the Lt. Governor's disappointment that he will not be seeking our party's nomination for governor. John Cherry has been an exceptional partner in the effort to diversify Michigan's economy and create jobs, train and educate our citizens, and protect them in the process. He has provided outstanding counsel to me and leadership to our entire administration on a host of issues, not the least of which is his work on expanding higher education opportunities and protecting our Great Lakes.

"I am proud of John Cherry's work in our administration and the integrity he demonstrated in considering a gubernatorial campaign. I look forward to his continued counsel and support throughout the remainder of this year as we work to move Michigan forward."

Statement from House Speaker Andy Dillon on Lt. Governor Cherry's decision not to run for governor:

"Michigan residents owe John Cherry a debt of gratitude for his decades of dedicated public service. I respect John's decision and the tremendous work he has done for the state of Michigan."