Former Rep. J.D. Hayworth (R-Ariz.) was in D.C. Thursday meeting with supporters of a possible primary challenge to Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.).
Hayworth, who lost his 5th district seat to Rep. Harry Mitchell (D-Ariz.) in 2006, told CQ-Roll Call he was "taking a very, very serious look" at the race but had made no decision. "We're just doing our due diligence," he said.
Hayworth was spotted with House Minority Leader John Boehner Thursday but said it was not a scheduled meeting. "I just bumped into John," he explained.
He declined to say with whom he formal meetings during his swing through in D.C., though he did say those he had spoken to had been "very encouraging." He also came to attend a holiday party hosted by conservative advocacy group Citizens United on Thursday night.
A Rasmussen Reports poll of likely GOP voters conducted Nov. 18 showed Hayworth within the margin of error against McCain, who is running for his 5th term. Hayworth, a staunch opponent of illegal immigration and now a conservative radio commentator, would appeal to the state's conservative base, which has been distrustful of McCain in the past.
Anti-illegal immigration activist Chris Simcox is also in the primary race. McCain does not face stiff Democratic competition for his seat.
Hayworth flies back to Arizona Saturday morning.
CQ Politics rates the race Safe Republican.
To follow all the 2010 Senate races, check out the CQ Politics election map.
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