There have been rumblings for some time, but now Louisville Republican Cathy Bailey tells the Lexington Herald-Leader that she is considering a run for Jim Bunning's Senate seat, even if Bunning does not retire on his own.

That's in marked contrast to Bunning's fellow Northern Kentuckian, Secretary of State Trey Grayson who says he will run only if Bunning chooses to retire.

Bailey is a formidable fundraiser, as evidenced in her roles raising money for GOP Presidential candidates. And, she and husband Irv Bailey, the former Providian Chairman and CEO, have personal wealth to draw on, as well.

I hear that Bailey is likely to speak at the GOP Lincoln Day dinner this Saturday in Louisville, only adding to the intrigue. Senators Bunning and McConnell (who Bunning blamed Tuesday for Republican electoral failures) are slated to attend. And the emcee is potential candidate Grayson.

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