The Chattanooga Times Free Press reports that Mike McWherter is still the front runner among unannounced candidates to challenge Sen. Lamar Alexander for U.S. Senate.

According to the article, the other two potential candidates, Bob Tuke and Kevin Doherty, say they will step aside if McWherter decides to run, and the three will unite to elect the Democratic nominee, whoever it is.

Soon-to-be-former Nashville Mayor Bill Purcell is another name being mentioned, but his office says he is "focused on finishing up his mayoral term" which ends Sept. 21st. McWherter had said he will make a decision after Labor Day.

In our opinion, any of these candidates would be strong, but so will Alexander. Things could get especially interesting if Bill Purcell decides to test the waters. Read the article for more remarks from the other potential candidates.

(By way of Senate 2008 Guru)