Senator Heller Gets Democratic Challenger

Confirming what has been one of the worst-kept political secrets, Representative Jacky Rosen confirmed to the Associated Press that she will seek the Democratic nomination for the United States Senate next year. She will challenge Republican incumbent Dean Heller.

Rosen, a former computer programmer and software designer, was elected for the first time in a close race last year.

Former Senator Harry Reid, who retired last year, is said to be behind her decision, having recruited her with the help of the man who succeeded him as Senate Majority Leader, Charles Schumer.

Heller is seen as the most vulnerable of Republicans running for reelection next year. (Subscribe to local news alerts on Patch).

He is the only Republican trying for another term in a state that Hillary Clinton won and a poll this week showed him losing to a generic Democrat.

While having Reid's backing will likely keep others from the race, there's no guarantee that other Democrats such as former state treasurer Kate Marshall will stay out.

Photo Rep. Rosen's office.