Hagel's (R-Ne) potential successors expected to fall in line quickly

[Omaha Steve]

Source: Omaha World Herald

BY ROBYNN TYSVER

A political logjam in Nebraska that has forced a slew of potential U.S. Senate candidates to tread water for months will begin breaking Monday, when Chuck Hagel formally announces he will not seek re-election.

Democrat Bob Kerrey, Republican Mike Johanns and others likely will begin unveiling their plans for the 2008 race in the coming weeks or, possibly, days.

"You'll see some quick announcements from people who haven't officially announced (so far)," said David Kramer, a former GOP Senate candidate and Nebraska political veteran.

Kerrey, now living in New York, has said he is seriously thinking about returning to Nebraska to run for the Senate, whereas Johanns has done nothing to dampen speculation among his supporters that he is considering a bid.

Read more: http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_page=2835&u_sid=10127403