Democrats nationally and in North Carolina are zeroing in on Senator Dole in 2008. She is vulnerable – to the right opponent.

Beating an incumbent Senator is tough. I learned that working for Jim Hunt against Jesse Helms in 1984 and for John Edwards against Lauch Faircloth in 1998.

Democrats need a tough, well-funded opponent who will tell voters the truth behind the plastic façade:

• Dole is a creature of Washington and the Watergate, not North Carolina;

• She comes to North Carolina rarely – and then only for highly scripted photo ops;

• She proved in her TV appearances this fall as Chair of the Republican Senatorial Campaign Committee that she cannot handle herself in tough, face-to-face exchanges.

Governor Easley will not run. He’s positioning himself to be Barack Obama’s running mate.

So here’s a suggestion: Recruit one of the General Assembly’s bright and experienced female legislators.

There are several possibilities. Pick your favorite.

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