JD's tougher challenge would be the primary against Mac, imho. I don't see a popular dem coming along. I'd also put my money on the Tea Party crowd to replace McCain. Even my feel-good lib wife realizes illegal immigration is of great concern here. That's the main issue that distinguishes the 2 from each other, climate-change and terrorism (waterboarding) being 2 other issues.
The political climate is such here in the US that the time is right for JD to try it. He'll get Sheriff Joe's endorsement, which means something to many.
I heard Sheriff Joe is going with McGeezer? What are the odds he will go with JD? That could be huge!