Washington Democrats were handed a setback today when former Nebraska Sen. Bob Kerrey announced he would not run to replace retiring Sen. Chuck Hagel, a Republican. As Hagel announced he would step down, Kerrey's name was widely circulated as a potential candidate, and he even visited Washington to discuss the race with Senate Democratic leaders.

The move means Democrats will now reach out to second-tier candidates Mike Fahey, mayor of Omaha, and 2006 Congressional Candidate Scott Kleeb. The winner of the Democratic primary will face off against either former Gov. Mike Johanns, who recently resigned as Agriculture Secretary, or Attorney General Jon Bruning, who are running against each other in the GOP race.

Johanns, who remains widely popular in the state, is considered the favorite in both contests.