Campaign Update: Self-funders and mystery candidates

Check out my analysis of early self-funders in the 2010 election cycle. Hint: there are a lot.

In the latest sign that he’s serious about challenging former New Hampshire Attorney General Kelly Ayotte in the GOP Senate primary, former gubernatorial nominee Ovide Lamontagne will go up with a website later this week.

Some GOP names surface to replace Senate candidate Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) in the House: stock market analyst Dick Green, former congressional aide Bill Cadigan and businessman Bob Dold.

Republicans are still seeking some direction against Rep. Alan Grayson (D-Fla.), with state House Speaker Larry Cretul (R) taking a pass.

The San Jose Mercury-News tees up Boxer vs. Fiorina – the next big Senate race of the 2010 election cycle.

Smells like a rumor: A mystery Democrat with means and renown is apparently “75 percent” ready to challenge Sen. Charles Grassley (R-Iowa).

Missouri state Sen. Bill Stouffer (R) formed a federal campaign committee last week for the race for Rep. Ike Skelton’s (D-Mo.) seat. He will face former state Rep. Vicky Hartzler in the primary for the right to face Skelton.

Former Lt. Gov. Dennis Wicker (D) emerges as an option to face Sen. Richard Burr (R-N.C.).

Another basically unknown Republican – in this case, basketball-coach son Danny Tarkanian, has a poll showing them leading Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.).