FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell, facing a potential challenge from actress Ashley Judd and taking no chances even with his re-election more than 18 months away, is poised to begin airing his campaign's first TV and radio ads.
McConnell campaign manager Jesse Benton on Tuesday confirmed "the six figure" ad buy.
That the Kentucky Republican is opting to run the TV spot and an accompanying radio ad so early caught the eye of Democrats, who moved to paint it as a sign that he's worried about his chances.
Political analysts suggested the Senate Republican leader might be concerned — not scared — and trying to scare away potential challengers. McConnell can easily afford the ad buy, having already raised more than $10 million. The 71-year-old McConnell was first elected in 1984.
