November 26, 2009 in Nation/World

Dobbs may seek N.J. Senate seat

• Print
• Email
• Share

Dobbs
(Full-size photo)

HILLSIDE, N.J. – Former CNN host Lou Dobbs is seriously considering running for the U.S. Senate in New Jersey in 2012 as a stepping stone to a possible White House bid – a congressional matchup that would pit one of illegal immigration’s biggest critics against a champion for immigrant rights.

Dobbs spokesman Robert Dilenschneider told the Associated Press Wednesday that Dobbs may challenge Sen. Robert Menendez, a Democrat, but is considering other offers he’s received since his abrupt exit from CNN on Nov. 11.

“A logical step for Lou, should he choose to go into public life, is to run for the next Senate seat in New Jersey or to accept some kind of appointed position, nationally or in New Jersey,” Dilenschneider said.

A Dobbs candidacy in 2012 would set up a pitched battle over immigration against Menendez, the Senate’s only Hispanic member.

Dobbs, who owns a farm in rural northwestern New Jersey, flirted briefly this year with a run for governor. He later ripped Republican nominee Chris Christie, a former federal prosecutor, over immigration enforcement.

Dobbs was once a Republican but is now an independent. He did not return requests for comment Wednesday.

© Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

No comments on this story so far. Add yours!