By Jonathan Allen, CQ Staff

Sen. Jim Webb said Monday he will not be Barack Obama ’s running mate.

“Under no circumstances will I be a candidate for vice president,” the Virginia Democrat said in a statement released to reporters.

Webb’s appeal to rural conservatives and his background as a combat veteran and former Navy secretary in a Republican presidential administration have been cited as reasons Obama might consider him for the second spot on the Democratic ticket.

But a national campaign is not in Webb’s plans.

“Last week I communicated to Senator Obama and his presidential campaign my firm intention to remain in the United States Senate, where I believe I am best equipped to serve the people of Virginia and this country,” Webb said.

Obama spokesman Bill Burton declined to say whether Webb had been told he would not be the Illinois senator’s choice.

“We will let you know the moment Senator Obama announces who is vice presidential nominee will be,” Burton said in an e-mail.