Dems pushed Gordon to run for Congress

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Last spring, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the chairman of the committee aimed at getting Democrats elected to Congress approached Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon and suggested he challenge GOP Rep. John Shadegg in 2010.

After testing the political winds, Gordon, who faces term limits in January 2012, ultimately decided against a bid for Congress.

But Shadegg's announcement today that he will not seek re-election to a ninth House term could compel Gordon to reconsider.

"The incumbent’s retirement does create some uncertainty, and undoubtedly will ratchet up Democrats’ efforts to field a competitive candidate," according to an analysis of the district from CQ Politics.

Congressional District 3, which includes the northern portion of Phoenix, parts of Paradise Valley and far north suburbs, leans Republican. Shadegg defeated Democratic challenger Bob Lord by a 12-point margin in 2008.

But with the Democratic Party's backing, Gordon may have greater fund-raising prowess -- not to mention name recognition -- than any other candidate. A number of Republicans are eyeing the seat. The only other Democrat to wade into the race is Jon Hulburd, who has raised $315,000 so far.

http://www.azcentral.com/members/Blog/PHXBeat/71585