AP: Georgia labor chief leaning toward Senate bid

ATLANTA - Georgia Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond has told The Associated Press he's leaning toward a run for U.S. Senate.

The 57-year-old Democrat says he is strongly considering a challenge to Republican Sen. Johnny Isakson. Thurmond says his experience as labor commissioner would serve him well if he decides to run, because jobs are a top priority for the nation.

Isakson is seeking a second term and has $3.9 million in the bank for his re-election bid. Isakson recently returned to the campaign trail after being hospitalized for an irregular heartbeat and a blood clot.

So far, the only Democrat to challenge him is former Rockdale County chief of staff R.J. Hadley, a first-time candidate who has struggled to raise money.

Thurmond, an Athens native, says he will announce his decision on Wednesday.