Lots of political news today.
From Delaware comes the news that Beau Biden, who was seen as the best prospect to secure a Democratic win in the seat vacate by his father isn't running after all:
"My first responsibilities are here in Delaware. I have a duty to fulfill as Attorney General -- and the immediate need to focus on a case of great consequence. And that is what I must do. Therefore I cannot and will not run for the United States Senate in 2010. I will run for reelection as Attorney General," Biden wrote in an email to supporters Monday morning.Okay, when Biden vacated his seat, his appointed replacement was Ted Kauffman, a former Biden staffer. He was widely viewed as a caretaker to hold the seat til Beau could run in the next election. So, instead of appointing a strong candidate who could have built up a record, the Bidens played the system. Now, it looks like Democrats could lose the seat. Great strategy.
The decision is a blow to Dems who hoped to mount a competitive race for the First State seat. Biden's decision makes Rep. Mike Castle (D) the overwhelming favorite to win the final 4 years of the senior Biden's term, replacing Sen. Ted Kaufman (D) after the Nov. elections.
Without the younger Biden in the race, Dems will likely turn to New Castle Co. exec. Chris Coons (D). Polls show Castle beating Coons by a wide margin.
