Merkley joining the Senate race?
Nigel Jaquiss cites "highly-placed" sources who tell him Oregon House Speaker Jeff Merkley will join the U.S. Senate race, aiming to unseat Gordon Smith in November 2008.
That sets up a primary battle between Merkley and Steve Novick, who's already in the race. Merkley told Jacquiss he won't announce a decision until August 1st. (Link)
