Republican U.S. Senator Tom Coburn announced Monday he will run for a “second and final” term in 2010.

“Today, I am announcing my intention to seek a second, and final, term in the United States Senate in 2010,” Coburn said during a morning press conference at the Tulsa Press Club. “This decision has been difficult for me, my wife and our family.”

Coburn made a campaign promise in 2004 only to pursue two terms in office. He said his desire to spend more time with his family at home is the major reason for the voluntary term limit.

“I don’t like being away from Oklahoma and my medical practice, nor do I like asking my loved ones to make sacrifices,” Coburn said. “I also don’t particularly like Washington, D.C.”

Before becoming a senator, Coburn served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1995-2001. After leaving the House, he published “Breach of Trust,” a book critical of Washington’s back-door politics.

“Coburn for U.S. Senate 2010” released its first campaign ad on the Web site under the theme “There’s Only One.” The ad portrays the Senator as a maverick who has stood alone to promote the right thing on many issues.

Despite President Obama’s low approval numbers in the state, Coburn highlights his friendship with the commander-in-chief in the ad. In 2006, Coburn and Obama worked on the “Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act,” a bill that created a database to track approximately $1 trillion in federal grants, contracts, loans and earmarks.

Karina Henderson, Oklahoma Democratic Party communications director, said Coburn’s relationship with Obama is not necessarily reflective of his voting record.

“We are looking forward to a spirited campaign,” Henderson said. “He may have a good relationship with Obama, but we want to look at whether his record has helped Oklahomans.”

Coburn also said he is looking forward to the upcoming campaign season.

“If Oklahomans decide that I am the best person to carry this fight and represent their values in the United States Senate, you have my word that I will be true to my oath and never back down, even if I must stand alone,” he said.