Republicans for Re-election? We'll See.

TGIF:

Virginia: John Warner is planning his first major fundraiser - three-and-a-half months from now. While some GOP on Retirement Watch are ramping up their fundraising, this hardly qualifies. If any prominent Democrat stepped up to the challenge, I do think J. Warner would announce retirement before going through the grueling rigors of a truly tough campaign.

Mississippi: The Washington Post's Chris Cillizza is convinced that Thad Cochran is going to run for re-election:

Domenici and Warner have already said publicly that they plan to run again, but because of their advanced age (in Warner's case) and on again, off again health problems (Domenici), no one knows for sure what they will ultimately decide.

Hagel continues to mull a presidential bid, and even the most plugged-in Republican strategists admit it is anyone's guess about what the Nebraska senator's future holds.

But Cochran's comments are a step in the right direction for Republicans. This cycle still looks like an uphill struggle for the party, but one seat looks close to coming off the table.

While I agree with Cillizza's thoughts on Warner, Domenici, and Hagel, I'm not sold a Cochran re-election bid. One big fundraising week (to keep options open and demonstrate some strength) doesn't make for certain a re-election bid.

Very much on the topic, Swing State Project, in an homage to Chuck D., is discussing Senators who have, in the past, made like they were going to run for re-election, only to ultimately opt for retirement, highlighting Mark Dayton (D-MN) and Ben Nighthorse Campbell (R-CO) as recent examples. Come share your thoughts.