Sen. Jim Webb, one of Obama's top choices for running mate, released this statement earlier today:

"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. "A year and a half ago, the people of Virginia honored me with election to the U.S. Senate. I entered elective politics because of my commitment to strengthen America's national security posture, to promote economic fairness, and to increase government accountability. I have worked hard to deliver upon that commitment, and I am convinced that my efforts and talents toward those ends are best served in the Senate. "In this regard, the bipartisan legislative template we were able to put into effect through 18 months of work in order to enact the new, landmark GI Bill will serve as a prototype for my future endeavors in government. This process, wherein we brought 58 Senators from both parties to the table as co-sponsors, along with more than 300 members of the House, gives me renewed confidence that the Congress can indeed work effectively across party lines and address the concerns of our citizens.

"At this time I am also renewing my commitment to work hard to make sure that Senator Obama wins both Virginia and the presidency this November. He is a man who speaks eloquently about our national goals and calls for the practical solutions that must be put into place to obtain them. I will proudly campaign for him."

As Sherman-esque statements go, that's about as definitive as it gets. Which is bad news for Obama. Webb not only would bring some much-needed national-security cred to Obama's ticket, but he would also help Obama win Virginia. Withdrawing from the race still leaves Gov. Tim Kaine and former Gov. Mark Warner available for Obama, but neither has Webb's national-security resume. On that score, Obama's choices are now limited to say the least. There's Gen. Wesley Clark, believed to have ruined his chances for questioning McCain's service, Gov. Bill Richardson, who many think is a liability, and Sen. Joe Biden, again, a liability, but probably the strongest of the bunch.

Still, Webb's name will remain in the veepstakes, if for no other reason then that saying you'll refuse is not the same thing as actually refusing.