This is Part Two of my tour through the Potentially Competitive Senate Races in 2010. Part One: Ohio Senate 2010 can be found here. Today I am focusing on the Kentucky Senate Race. Fresh off of a 53-47% win, Senator Mitch McConnell is heading back to the Senate. His Junior Partner Jim Bunning may not be so lucky....
The Potential Candidates:
Dan Mongiardo: The Current Lt. Governor was the nominee back in 2004. He outperformed Kerry and almost won this seat. Mongiardo would be a strong candidate should he be convinced to run.
Crit Luallen: The State Auditor, she was encouraged to run against McConnell (if only) this year. She may be able to energize the female vote in the way Hillary Clinton did in the primary.
Jack Conway: Lost a close(52-48%) race to Ann Northup back in 2002. Now the Attorney General.
Todd Hollenbach: The State Treasurer has seemed to have evanded much notice for this race. He would, however bring credibility to the Democratic side. According to his website he seems to be a strong supporter of education as a tool for advancement. At first glance I really like him as a potential candidate.
Bruce Lunsford: Fourth Time's the charm?
John Yarmuth: I really like Yarmuth, but I don't know how he will play outside of Louisville. Then again, do any of these Dems? (maybe Chandler or Mongiardo)
Ben Chandler: Would be a great pick. Might lose his House Seat. Also, he may not want to give up his seat on Appropriations.
Greg Stumbo: Former Attorney General who gained credibility with his invesitgations of Ernie Fletcher.
Remember, this is our last cycle on offense.