As of a few weeks ago, most political insiders were expecting Assemblyman Tom Harman to walk into
the 35th State Senate seat (to be vacated by Sen. John Campbell as soon as he wins the race for the 48th CD on Nov. 8).
There have been rumors about possible challengers, Michael Resk, a Huntington Beach businessman, disabled veteran and HB 4th of July Parade Co-Chair has been making the rounds and expressing interest (former OC GOP party staffer turned consultant Will Hutson is handling Resk). OC Board of Ed. member and failed Congressional candidate (47th against Loretta Sanchez in 2004) Alexandria Coronado has made some noise, but most don’t think she would go for the senate seat.
OC Supervisor Jim Silva, candidate for the 67th Assembly seat (the one Tom Harman holds now) has been recruited for to switch to the senate race, but probably won’t jump.
In the last few days a new list of potentials has surfaced. Long-time Irvine Councilwoman (former mayor) and friend to conservatives Christina Shea is interested, but not yet committed. Another interesting addition to the list: Dana Point Councilwoman Diane Harkey. Harkey, just elected in ’04 fought off a six-figure negative
independent expenditure to win her first elected post. The thing that differentiates Harkey from the crowd is that she is a self-funder–is soon to announce she has formed a committee and deposited $500,000. to start.
Why so much interest in taking on Tom Harman? Apparently he has made no friends all the while he has been in Sacto. I find him agreeable enough in passing at your 
typical political event. But others suggest he has not endeared himself to any one or any special interest group.
Even the New Majority, who took credit (deserved or not) for Harman’s 2000 ‘open-primary’ win for Assembly, has little interest in him now.
The X factor is Assemblyman Van Tran. Some have suggested he’ll run for the 34th Senate Seat against Tom Umberg. But this Special Election for senate (35th) would give him flexibility because the Special would be early next year, well before filing for re-election for the 34th.
Stay tuned…