The Maine GOP chairman who oversaw Republican takeover of the Maine Legislature two years ago but also dealt with controversy during the caucuses and convention won't seek re-election.

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) _ Charlie Webster announced his decision in an email two days after Democrats took back control of the House and Senate and an independent won Republican Sen. Olympia Snowe's seat.

The former state lawmaker from Farmington drew the ire of Ron Paul supporters, some of whom called for his ouster over the way the presidential caucuses were handled. He also was criticized after Paul supporters took over the state convention and failed to be seated at the national convention.

In his email, he said he enjoyed the opportunity to serve.

The state committee meets Dec. 1 to elect party leaders.

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