Jason Van Eaton – a longtime aide to Sen. Christopher “Kit” Bond, R-Mo. — said today that he’s decided against running for the 9th District congressional seat.

The post is attracting a crowd of contenders, because it will be vacated at the end of the year by Republican Kenny Hulshof, R-Columbia, who’s running for governor. Filing begins Tuesday.

Van Eaton had been among the Republicans giving serious looks at the contest. But he said today that “I just can’t justify doing it right now, because of the age of my kids.”

Van Eaton and his wife have two children, ages 6 and 4. “I’ve got to prioritize my kids,” he said.

A few months ago, Van Eaton ended a long tenure as a congressional aide to Bond. He’s now a corporate consultant, but continues to work for Bond’s political operation.

UPDATE–

Here’s a more detailed statement this afternoon from Van Eaton:

“As is evident from my career, public service is something I feel called to do. Serving the State of Missouri in my role in Senator Bond’s office is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.

“We have been thinking and praying about this important decision for weeks. At this stage in our lives, however, Mindy and I feel that the most important thing we can do is to remain focused on our family. Having worked in politics for 13 years, I have a sense of the time commitment required for service in Congress. With very young children, we believe that our commitment and time must prioritize their well being and positive development over all else.

“Serving in Congress has always been a passion of mine–one that I feel prepared to do. I hope to someday have the opportunity to do so. But at this important development stage in the life of our kids, we have decided to forgo a run for the 9th Congressional seat.”