Senate – 3/16/23

Pennsylvania:  2022 Senate Candidate Won’t Try Again:  Businesswoman and political activist Kathy Barnette, who placed a credible third place with 25% of the vote behind both Dr. Mehmet Oz and former hedge fund CEO David McCormick in the 2022 Pennsylvania Republican US Senate primary, says she will not return to run again next year.  The National Republican Senatorial Committee and the major outside GOP support organizations are attempting to recruit Mr. McCormick into next year’s challenge race against Sen. Bob Casey, Jr. (D). 

The ‘22 Republican gubernatorial nominee Doug Mastriano, a state Senator from Chambersburg, says he is considering a comeback.  Republican leaders are working to ensure a Mastriano repeat does not happen since he was defeated 56-42% in the general election and failed to run a competitive campaign.  In any event, Sen. Casey will be favored for re-election.

Wisconsin:  Businessman Considering Challenge to Sen. Baldwin:  Business owner Scott Mayer (R) confirms he is considering competing for the Wisconsin US Senate nomination in a race that has not yet seen much activity.  Mr. Mayer is capable of self-funding his race, though he says it’s “not something he is comfortable with.”  Mr. Mayer has been told he might have to fund as much as $20 million to run a competitive race. 
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At this point, no notable Republican has come forward to declare their Senate candidacy.  Since Wisconsin always features close races, it is probable that this contest has the eventual potential of becoming a top tier targeted campaign.