The Republicans have not yet settled on a candidate to replace retiring Sen. Ben Nelson (D-NE), but it has looked liked whoever gets the nod would have a very strong chance to capture the seat – in fact, that was the case even if Nelson decided to stand for reelection. However, the Democrats have a fighting chance again. According to reports, popular former Sen. Bob Kerrey (D-NE) has had a change of heart and will run after earlier announcing he’d stay on the sidelines.
According to The Hill, the frontrunner on the Republican side is state Attorney General Jon Bruning. He is battling state Treasurer Don Stenberg, who is said to be the Tea Party standard bearer.
Nelson was considered to be one of the most vulnerable senators in this election cycle. The solid red nature of the Nebraska electorate has not produced a very large pool of candidates for the Democrats to consider running in a statewide election.
Kerrey certainly is well-known. According to reports, one problem he may face is overcoming his decision to live elsewhere since his days as senator from the state. He has been living and working in New York.
Washington Post has been reporting that Kerrey informed Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) of his decision to run after all. He has just a few days to file before the deadline for that elapses.
