GOP Sen. Bob Corker is 'listening closely' to people urging him to reconsider retirement

Last fall, Sen. Bob Corker (R-Tenn.) made the surprise announcement that he would not seek re-election in November. Now — with Republicans worried about losing Senate seats to Democrats and Corker's relationship with President Trump somewhat mended — he's listening to people who are asking him to reconsider.

On Monday night, Corker told NPR he didn't have anything to say about his plans, but on Tuesday evening, spokeswoman Micah Johnson put out a statement saying Corker has been approached by people in Tennessee who have "concerns about the outcome of this election because they believe it could determine control of the Senate and the future of our agenda. The senator has been encouraged to reconsider his decision and is listening closely."

Over the weekend, CNN reported that Corker's fellow Republicans have been hoping Corker will run again, especially if the Democrats nominate popular former Gov. Phil Bredesen. So far, there are six candidates in the GOP Senate primary, including Rep. Marsha Blackburn. Corker was close to Trump during his presidential campaign but made several critical statements against him throughout 2017; they have made strides in repairing their relationship, and people close to Corker told NPR it's not surprising the senator is now reconsidering his decision. Corker needs to make up his mind pretty soon: He has until April 5 to file for re-election.

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