Bayh may have timed his exit so the Dems could avoid a primary fight

[WI_DEM]

Bayh could still file to run, then drop out. But if he does not file his signatures tomorrow, no other Dem is expected to collect the required 500 signatures by then, meaning Dems will get the chance to pick their own nominee. Some DC Dems say the process is the best-case scenario short of having Bayh on the ballot for a 3rd term; allowing the party to pick a nominee will avoid a primary.

Rep. Brad Ellsworth (D) is the early name Dem strategists are throwing around. He easily beat ex-Rep. John Hostettler (R) in '06 to capture a centrist district, and he has cut a moderate swath in his 2 terms in the House.

Still, if Ellsworth runs, that opens up a vulnerable House seat GOPers would make a top target. Bayh's decision could ultimately topple 2 Dem-held seats, making his retirement one of the biggest blows Dems have suffered this year.


http://hotlineoncall.nationaljournal.com/archives/2010/02/explaining_the.php

[liberalpragmatist]

1. Also, it freezes the Republican field

So they're stuck with a pretty weak lot - Dan Coats, John Hostettler, and some unknown state senator (who would actually probably be their strongest candidate given the handicaps the other two have).

If Bayh had gotten out earlier than Mike Pence or Mitch Daniels may have run.

[aquart]

2. Yeah. It's nice of you to try to make me miss him.

But this majority we're losing ....wasn't really there, was it?

[WI_DEM]

4. Nobody is trying to make you do anything. Just reporting a story.

[dysfunctional press]

3. i think it would be funny if somebody had the where-with-all to file and run by the deadline...

indiana may just find itself with a larouchie on the ballot as a dem senate candidate in november...