Arizona 2010

[© tweed]

it seems unlikely that McCain will run for re-election regardless of the outcome of the presidential race.  he either will be the president and obviously not seeking re-election, or a defeated, tainted 74-year-old with skin cancer.

in an area of the country that appears to be moving Democratic, would this be a prime pickup opportunity?  who are the likely contenders on both sides?

[Kaine for Senate '18]

Napolitano is likely to run on the Democratic side; I can't think of any Republicans who would run, though.

[Spaghetti Cat]

Think Flake or Shadegg.

[YRABNNRM]

I'm not sure it's guaranteed that McCain will retire in 2011 if he loses the Presidential race.

[Verily]

I'm not sure it's guaranteed that McCain will retire in 2011 if he loses the Presidential race.

Certainly if the Republicans don't look likely to win back the Senate in 2010 (which right now I would say is highly unlikely), I don't see McCain having any desire to stick around and be a Stevens or a Byrd.

[CARLHAYDEN]

Think Flake or Shadegg.

It will be Shadegg.

Flake is skating on thin ice with his constituents.

[Lief 🗽]

While I'd much prefer a Democrat to win the seat (and think Napolitano will if she wants it), Flake would be a decent Senator, I think.

[Boris]

GOP has to be theoretically favored here (and nationwide) in 2010 if Obama wins the Presidency.

[MarkWarner08]

Gabby Giffords may run if Napolitano steps aside. Don't count out a J.D. Hayworth run, either.

[Chancellor Tanterterg]

Gabby Giffords may run if Napolitano steps aside. Don't count out a J.D. Hayworth run, either.

Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard and Phoniex mayor Phil Gordon would also be strong Democratic candidates. 

[WalterMitty]

i suppose in 2010 mccain will be receiving his henry cabot lodge consolation prize from president obama...ambassador to vietnam!