Paul Ryan's fans want him to run for president, but they may have to settle for the Senate. Today's surprise announcement from Democrat Herb Kohl that he won't run for re-election next year in Wisconsin raises the possibility for the House budget wonk. In a statement, Ryan said he wants to "take some time over the next few days to discuss this news with my family and supporters before making any decision."
Because of his budget plan, Ryan's name already will be front and center in the 2012 elections, and a Senate run—in Wisconsin, no less, which has been a political hot spot this year—would make it even more so, notes the Hill. Kohl is the sixth Democratic senator to opt against re-election, and the party can ill afford to lose his seat. The big Democratic name being mentioned is Russ Feingold, the former senator who lost his seat in November. He, too, left open the possibility of a run today. (More Paul Ryan stories.)