more likely he's just putting out his name now to build interest for whatever office he does eventually decide to run for in a few years
http://www.argusleader.com/article/20091029/NEWS/910290326/1001/news/McGovern-grandson-pegged-as-possible-Thune-challengerAs South Dakota Democrats scan the horizon for a challenger to Sen. John Thune next year, one name starting to appear has a familiar ring to it.
Matt McGovern, the grandson of former Sen. George McGovern, is emerging as a potential contender to Thune, who is seeking his second term in the Senate. The few big names in the Democratic Party have already committed to other races, and a thin bench could give McGovern a clear shot at Thune.
McGovern, 37, is the state director for Repower America, a national group founded by former Vice President Al Gore to promote clean energy and policies that address climate change. He also served as President Obama's state chairman during last year's campaign.
In an interview last week, McGovern said he's not a candidate for any office right now. His first priority is to encourage lawmakers to support policies that would create thousands of clean-energy jobs in South Dakota.
"It's flattering to hear your name mentioned in that way," he said. "I've always been interested in public service."
McGovern is the son of George McGovern's daughter, Susan, and until a few years ago he went by the name Matt McGovern-Rowen.
George McGovern last week called his grandson a "very good young man."
"I don't know what he's going to do in terms of seeking higher office," the former senator said.
With one year before the election, Democrats are keen on finding somebody who can give Thune a good run. It will take somebody with fortitude. The Republican enjoys widespread popularity in a red state, and he's sitting on a mountain of money - $5.5 million at the end of the last quarter.
McGovern could be an intriguing choice because of ties to old-guard McGovernite Democrats and to the new guard that has emerged under Obama.
Typically, successful candidates for Congress have already won elections to lower office, but that is becoming less common, said Gary Aguiar, a political science professor at South Dakota State University. Thune and Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin won congressional seats without the benefit of holding lower offices.
"It's kind of obvious: You have to have name recognition and be able to raise money," Aguiar said. "He does have a little bit of both."
Rick Hauffe, the former executive director of the state party, said it's essential that Democrats find a quality candidate who can make Thune spend his resources here.
Under federal campaign finance rules, Thune could use his money to support races in other parts of the country.
