Tennessee Democrats are seeking a new challenger for Lamar Alexander's Senate seat after prospective candidate Mike McWherter dropped out. The race is important because Tennessee is one of the few Southern states where the Democrats are still strong, reports Congressional Quarterly. Former Democratic chairman Bob Tuke and Nashville attorney Kevin Doherty may seek to replace McWherter.
"Either of those candidates would provide a cogent message on why Tennesseans should vote Democratic in 2008,” a Democratic spokesman said. “They have the greatest appeal for Democrats and independent-minded voters." Other potential candidates include Rep. Lincoln Davis, Nashville Mayor Bill Purcell and former state Rep. Kim McMillan. (More Tennessee stories.)