Edwards' decision to stay in Congress relieves some Texas Democrats

When U.S. Rep. Chet Edwards (D-Waco) opted on Sunday to remove himself from consideration for the secretary of Veterans Affairs position in an Obama administration, he claimed he could do more to help veterans by remaining in the House.

It seems other Texas Democrats pushed for loyalty to the state and party, as well.

Edwards, who was a finalist for the party's vice presidential nomination in August, is considered among the more influential Texas Democrats in Washington. According to the Houston Chronicle, Texas Democratic House members lobbied Edwards to remain in his post for "fear Edwards' Republican-leaning House district (17) would be captured by the GOP if Edwards resigned to join the Cabinet."

In addition to party reasons, Edwards is the senior Texas Democrat on the Appropriations Committee and plays a key role in securing funding for the state. U.S. Rep. Ciro Rodriguez (D-San Antonio), another member on the Appropriations Committee, told the San Antonio Express-News that having Edwards remain could be "more advantageous to San Antonio."

With Edwards out of the running, Illinois' Department of Veterans Affairs Director Tammy Duckworth, a wounded Iraq war veteran, is likely the front-runner for the secretary of Veteran Affairs.

She is also, however, a candidate to replace Obama in the Senate, a position that would likely take priority if offered.