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:<\/p>\n
* Sen. John Ensign (R-Nev.) was<\/i> a top Dem target going into 2006, but now many leading Nevada Dems say they will give Ensign a pass<\/a> when he seeks reelection next year. Instead, the party will focus on state offices, including governor, secretary of state, and attorney general.<\/p>\n * Antonio Villaraigosa’s lead in the Los Angeles mayoral race has grown considerably in recent weeks. A new poll shows Villaraigosa leading incumbent James Hahn 53% to 35%<\/a>, with 12% undecided.<\/p>\n * With Rep. Bob Beauprez (R-Colo.) expected to run for governor next year, candidates are shuffling for position to replace him. The first to make a firm commitment to the race is Peggy Lamm<\/a>, a former Democratic state representative. Banker Jim Polsfut and former state legislator Renny Fagan, both Dems, have also expressed interest<\/a>.<\/p>\n * The race to succeed Rep. Rob Portman (R-Ohio), who’s been nominated to be Bush’s top trade negotiator, is getting crowded. The list of Republican candidates grew to five<\/a> this week. The leading two remain Hamilton County Commissioner Pat DeWine and state Rep. Tom Brinkman.<\/p>\n