(Mike) Thurmond would consider Senate race if Baker opts out (Georgia)

Athens Banner-Herald ^ | 6/13/03 | Walter C. Jones

[LdSentinal]

ATLANTA - State Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond would consider running for the U.S. Senate if Attorney General Thurbert Baker balks at the chance.

Baker, a Decatur native, told reporters from Morris Communications Corp.'s Georgia newspapers this week that he is considering a run for the office.

''This is not anything that I have made a decision about,'' he said.

Thurmond, who's from Athens, said he's on hold.

''Right now, Thurbert Baker is the outstanding, top option for the Democrats,'' Thurmond said. ''What I've said to Thurbert is, if he decides not to, I'll consider it. Because right now, I support him if he decides to run.''

Democratic Party leaders are eager for a high-profile candidate like Baker or Thurmond to attempt to retain the Senate seat held by Zell Miller, who has announced his retirement. Miller brought the seat back to the Democratic column in 2000 when he won a special election to complete the term of the late Paul Coverdell, a Republican.

With a popular President Bush heading next year's ticket and the GOP dominating last year's statewide elections, Democrats have been shy to commit. Plus, two GOP congressmen - Mac Collins of Jackson and Johnny Isakson of Marietta - have joined the fray for the Republican nomination.

Isakson already has raised $2 million for the race.

Freshman state Sen. Mary Squires of Norcross is the sole announced Democratic candidate.

The decision is difficult for both Baker and Thurmond. To run, they would have to resign from the posts they were just re-elected to in November.

[Princeliberty]

Under Georgia state law Baker would have to resign
just to run? Or is than resign if he won?

[LdSentinal]

I'm not sure. My guess is that if either Baker or Thurmond ran, they would have to give up their posts in January, 2005, if they won the race or not.

[Impy]

Come on, the senate doesn't need a new Thurmond. :p

Miller brought the seat back to the Democratic column in 2000 when he won a special election to complete the term of the late Paul Coverdell, a Republican.

Roy Barnes put the seat back in the demonratic column when he appointed Miller.