"Under no circumstances" will Sen. Jim Webb be a candidate for vice president alongside Barack Obama, the Virginia Democrat said Monday.

Webb, who was frequently named as a potential No. 2 pick, was seen as a compelling choice due to his battleground state geography and national security credentials.

But the freshman senator dashed any ideas that he would accept the running mate slot.

"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. Under no circumstances will I be a candidate for Vice President," Webb said in a written statement.

He added that he will continue to defend and "proudly campaign" for Obama

Webb's remarks are the first time the senator phrased his response so concisely. While he was an oft-mentioned potential candidate, Webb did face opposition from the left for a book he had written about the Civil War and because of questions about whether a potentially forked tongue could get him in trouble.

In bowing out, Webb said the people of Virginia "honored" him with his Senate election and he is proud of his accomplishments during his tenure and wants to continue in that post.