I wrote a few weeks ago that Mike Huckabee ought to strongly consider a Senate bid in Arkansas. The idea is gathering steam. David Freddoso wrote in support of the idea yesterday (noting -- correctly -- that 'there is no clearer path for him' to be elected president). Phil Kerpen plugs the idea today. Bob Novak recently wrote that Huckabee's strong standing among conservatives would be 'threatened' if he continues to refuse to run against Pryor.
Kerpen points out that while Huckabee was opposed by fiscal conservatives in the presidential race, he would likely earn their strong support against Pryor. As the Policy Director for Americans for Prosperity, Kerpen's view on the issues carries much weight.
But that's not the only opening for Huckabee -- Pryor also has a mixed record on abortion (with a rating of zero in this Congress), according to the National Right to Life Committee, giving Huckabee a strong opening among social conservatives. Similarly, his inconsistent record on business issues has earned him mixed grades from the National Association of Manufacturers and the National Federation of Independent Business.
As far as I'm aware, the last poll testing a Pryor vs. Huckabee race showed a narrow Pryor advantage -- with the incumbent Senator under the critical 50 percent re-elect. That poll was taken last summer -- before Huckabee's presidential bid took off. It would almost certainly be closer today.
This is a great opportunity for Huckabee. Pryor is a vulnerable Democratic incumbent, with no Republican opponent. Huckabee has a national profile, a positive image, and a deep national fundraising base. While his presidential bid split the Republican base, his Senate candidacy could easily unite the factions behind him. A win would give him the opportunity to establish a record on fiscal issues and national security issues that would help him in a future run for president. It would also earn him fans with the Republican establishment, eager to see the Democratic advantage in the Senate minimized or reversed.
