Today’s installment of campaign-related news items that wouldn’t generate a post of their own, but may be of interest to political observers:
* This sounds like it warrants some follow-up: “Two of the leading GOP presidential contenders took time out of their frenetic fundraising schedules late last week to address ‘Legacy,’ a group of wealthy conservative Christians that operate below the radar screen. Sen. John McCain spoke to a dinner gathering of the organization in Washington — where they’re meeting — on Thursday night and former Gov. Mitt Romney addressed them at a lunch in the Willard hotel Friday afternoon, a member said.”
* Newt Gingrich is still mulling over a presidential campaign, but according to Bob Novak, he’s waiting to see what happens with Fred Thompson. “If Thompson runs a vigorous and effective campaign, Gingrich says privately, he probably will not get in the race. If Thompson proves a dud, however, the former House speaker will seriously consider making a run. That implies that the others in the field look to Gingrich like losers in the general election.”
* Tommy Thompson conceded over the weekend that the upcoming Ames Straw Poll is “very much a must win” for his campaign. If he comes up short, as he’s expected to do, the former Bush HHS Secretary will probably pack up and go home.
* San Antonio attorney Mikal Watts (D) is gearing up for a serious challenge against Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) next year. Watts, independently wealthy, is already indicating that he’s prepared to spend $10 million of his own money on the race.
* Montana State Rep. Michael Lange (R) announced that he’s going to take on incumbent Sen. Max Baucus (D) next year. Baucus is considered a heavy favorite.
* And in Louisiana, State Treasurer John N. Kennedy, elected as a Democrat, is reportedly poised to switch parties and wants to take on Sen. Mary Landrieu (D) next year as a Republican. Kennedy reportedly discussed his plans last month at a meeting with Karl Rove and Sen. David Vitter (R-La.).