Though the Delaware Senate race is not lost yet for Democrats, the main issue right now is finding a replacement candidate to fill the hole left by the guy who most considered likely to run (until recent weeks), Beau Biden.
Incumbent Sen. Ted Kaufman says he won’t seek a full term, and Lt. Gov. Matt Denn, a rising star in the local party, has decided to stay put (he’s been in that office for only a year).
The biggest fish left in the pond appears to be New Castle County Executive Chris Coons, who says he’s he’s seriously considering it:
One early name mentioned as a possible Democratic challenger to Castle is New Castle County Executive Chris Coons, who represents a majority of the state’s population. Coons told POLITICO Monday he is “seriously considering” a bid.
“I’ve received several calls from community leaders and friends encouraging me to run for the open seat for United States Senate,” he said. “I am seriously considering running for the open seat. I need some time to meet with my family and those close to me. I expect to make a decision in the next few days.”
Coons trailed Castle by 51-39 in the latest poll of this race, but he’d at least stand a fighting chance if he could mount a competent campaign. Remember, for all Castle’s strength, he is still a pretty old guy in the sunset of his electoral career — Coons, in his ’40s, will at least have that contrast in his favor.
UPDATE: Ex-Lt. Gov. John Carney, currently running for Castle’s open seat in the House, won’t switch races, either.
RaceTracker: DE-Sen