Heather to Announce for Senate Monday?

I've been so busy today in the Legislature, I nearly missed this:

Politico is reporting, based on reports by "two Republicans" that former Congresswoman Heather Wilson will announce Monday she'll run for retiring U.S. Sen. Jeff Bingaman's seat.

(U.S. Rep. Steve) Pearce has been vocal about how his party should come together to select the proper "conservative candidate" to run for Bingaman's seat in order to head off the divisiveness that aided Sen. Tom Udall three years ago.


But GOP insiders believe that Wilson's more moderate profile makes her the most electable candidate in the field. Highly respected on national security issues, Wilson also questioned the cost of the Medicare prescription drug law and wasn't shy about criticizing then Majority Leader Tom DeLay. At one point, Wilson revealed that House Democrats invited her to switch parties.


Wilson's quick entry won't necessarily clear the field. Pearce hasn't ruled out a run and Lt. Gov. John Sanchez is also said to be considering it.

The Politico piece also mentions U.S. Rep. Martin Heinrich and state Auditor Hector Balderas as possible Democratic contenders.