SALT LAKE CITY - Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff suspended his campaign for U.S. Senate on Wednesday, saying he needs to spend more time with a daughter who is experiencing severe mental health problems.

It wasn't immediately clear whether Shurtleff would drop out of the race altogether.

Calls and e-mails to campaign spokesman Jason Powers were not immediately returned, although a news conference was scheduled for later Wednesday.

Shurtleff is one of several Republicans challenging U.S. Sen. Bob Bennett for the GOP nomination this spring.

Shurtleff was considered Bennett's most serious challenger, although Bennett has maintained a sizable fundraising lead. Bennett's other challengers have little statewide name recognition or political experience.

"This announcement comes with sorrow because I do want to serve my country, and I do believe both political parties have put this nation in grave danger by spending so foolishly that our children and grandchildren will have a difficult time recovering," Shurtleff said in a prepared statement.

Shurtleff's primary attacks on Bennett revolved around Bennett's support for bank bailouts and a health care proposal that would require individuals to buy health insurance.

Shurtleff said he would continue to serve as attorney general.

"I want to thank the thousands of supporters who have been by my side thus far. I ask for your prayers for my family and specifically my daughter. We don't think our trials are any harder than rest of the world's, but right now, we could use a little extra help," Shurtleff said.

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