Breaking: Insiders tell TVNewser that in a production meeting late this afternoon just before the 5pmET edition of Hardball, Chris Matthews told the Hardball team that he would not be running for senate.

Developing...

> More from the NYTimes' Bill Carter: Mr. Matthews declined to comment, as did executives from NBC News. But one executive said that discussions with Mr. Matthews for a new contract to remain on "Hardball" were continuing.

> Earlier on TVNewser:

• Feb. 1, 2008: Is Chris Matthews Running for Senate?

• Nov. 26: Matthews Meets with PA Dems About Possible Senate Run

• Nov. 30: Sen. Specter Responds to Possible Chris Matthews Run