Bunning May Be Retiring

From Politico:

Kentucky Sen. Jim Bunning, the most endangered Republican up for reelection in 2010, appears headed for retirement after giving his leading GOP rival the blessing to prepare to run for his seat next year.

Bunning’s retirement would be a huge victory for national Republicans who have grown increasingly nervous that the 77-year-old two-term senator would lose a critical race as the party tries to cling to its diminished minority in the Senate.

Kentucky Senate 2010: Mongiardo Rakes It In - Bunning's Numbers 'Lousy'

While we wait on Kentucky Senator, Jim Bunning's numbers, potential Democratic challenger, Lt. Governor, Daniel Mongiardo, reports having already raised more than $400,000.  

Kentucky Senate 2010: Rematch?

He may have a few Democratic primary opponents, but Kentucky's Lt. Governor, Daniel Mongiardo, has raised in excess of $400K already (story) for his upcoming US Senate race in 2010. Out of the gate and in the lead already, Mongiardo has already received (predictably) a key endorsement from Kentucky Governor, Steve Beshear. 

Other notable potential challengers to Mongiardo in the Democratic primary are: Attorney General, Jack Conway; state Auditor Crit Luallen; and U.S. Representative, Ben Chandler.

A Democratic primary victory for Mongiardo would setup another showdown, which would feature a rematch of Kentucky's 2004 election when Bunning narrowly defeated Mongiardo (51% - 49%).

News of Mongiardo's fundraising success comes just days after Republican Senator, Jim Bunning, admitted having trouble raising money -- blaming his state colleague and Minority Leader, Mitch McConnell and the economic downturn.  Take responsibility much, Senator?

Perhaps he should be blaming himself and the former President Bush?