Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison has decided to stay in Congress.

The Texas Republican says she will serve out her third term, which ends in 2012.

Last year, she said she would step down to run for the governor of Texas, but she lost in the primary to incumbent Rick Perry.

Wednesday she explained her change of heart.

"I wouldn't have anticipated the direction and the swiftness of the direction of our country under any circumstances. But it has caused me to look at my resignation in a different way," Hutchison said. "I think it is better that I stay and serve out my term."

Other Republicans, including Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, said they support Hutchison's decision.