In May 2005, Nugent said he was "getting real close to deciding to run" for governor of Michigan. On August 4, 2005, CNN reported that Nugent had withdrawn from the race for 2006 but was keeping his options open for 2010. Nugent also was rumoured to be under consideration by the Illinois Republican Party as its candidate in that state's 2004 Senate race. Ted and his family now live in Crawford, Texas, a small town west of Waco, Texas, which is also the location of President George W. Bush's ranch. He is a weekly contributor to the local newspaper, the Waco Tribune-Herald. In July 2008, Nugent reiterated his desire, saying "I was serious when I threatened to run for office in the past if I cannot find a candidate who respects the U.S. Constitution and our sacred Bill of Rights."