Governor Easley may have just sent a huge signal he’s thinking about running for the Senate in 2008. Just before the election the Governor spent $100,000 – in ‘leftover campaign funds – on TV ads promoting his ‘prescription drug plan for low-income senior citizens.” (News and Observer; 10-31-06). Maybe, this is just the Governor’s way of helping senior citizens, as the Governor’s spokesperson implies. But, on the other hand, how often does a politician (or anyone else) do a good deed by spending $100,000 on TV ads? It’s natural to wonder if the Governor’s ads are the curtain rising on a Senate campaign?

The last time a sitting Governor and Senator clashed head on was when Jim Hunt ran against Jesse Helms. Just a precaution, Senator Dole might be wise to start girding for battle.