Bunning bleeds; McConnell shrugs

I think Senator Jim Bunning may now not be so bad for Republicans given Arlen's decision to switch sides. Unless Republicans can find a candidate who they know can stand up for party well in the 2010 race, they may just have to stick with Bunning and hope for the best. Although there has been some disagreement between Bunning and Republican leaders, at least they know they can count on him for the votes when it matters. His fundraising totals are very low right now and I do not think he will make enough on his own unless he gets some help from his colleagues. Considering that Mitch McConnell comes from the same state he has to know whether or not there is a person capable from the GOP to take over for Bunning. If there isn't then Bunning becomes the de facto candidate and they should pump money into his war chest as soon as possible. McConnell had to raise almost $21 million the last time he ran and if he had to get that much to feel secure, then Bunning is going to need at least $15 million for re-election on top of the public support from McConnell and other Republican leaders. Bunning doesn't have very much time left if he is going to make a charge and so maybe the new filibuster scare will influence Republicans to take a chance on him once again.