[JohnnyZ]

This is unfortunate. I'd rather run against Dayton than have an open seat race.

This means that both Mark Kennedy and Gil Gutkneckt are in, I suppose.

I wonder if Mike Hatch will try for it?

[zbigreddogz]

That's what I was thinking. Dayton was weaker then an open seat.

Oh well. It's still a tossup, although I'd say it's slightly leaning D.

[MplsSteve]

My feeling is that Hatch is planning a run for Governor against Tim Pawlenty.

Hatch's whole adult life has been predicated on running for Governor. He's failed twice before (in '90 and '94) and he likely views this as his last legit chance.

[fieldmarshaldj]

I agree with Steve. It seems more likely Hatch will try for Governor, but then, you never know. I don't think the 'Rats have an 800-lb gorilla in the race, and the bloodier the primary, the better it is for us... Now if only we could keep Gutknecht in his seat and have Kiffmeyer run for Kennedy's seat.