June 1, 2007 3:55 PM

SIZING UP THE DEMS' CHANCES IN '08 FOR THE SENATE

Some Democratic operatives cite weak poll numbers for Cornyn. The incumbent Senator says he's focusing on business in Washington for now.
Members of the punditocracy have spent months now speculating on the electoral prospects of Texas’ junior Senator, John Cornyn. They cite poll numbers that would seem to show some level of vulnerability. Fundraising figures, meanwhile, coming out of the state Democratic Party would seem to show that the D’s are demonstrating a renewed ability to raise cash.

With today’s announcement by San Antonio plaintiff’s attorney Mikal Watts of the formation of an exploratory committee and with rumors swirling about the intentions of state Rep. Rick Noriega, Democrats seem more confident about their prospects to grab a statewide office than at any point in the last 10 years.

Speaking on behalf of John Sharp, Kelly Fero said,"“For months, people in Washington and Austin have been urging Sharp to consider a race for the U.S. Senate because they have polling that shows Sharp and Cornyn tied at 45 percent. As far as I can tell, these folks have been unsuccessful in convincing Sharp to run — so far.â€