WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Democrats plan on turning to Sen. Patty Murray of Washington to steer the defense of 21 Democratic seats up for re-election in 2012.
Those close to the decision say Murray will make official on Tuesday her commitment to serve as the next chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. They spoke on condition of anonymity to let Murray and Senate leaders make the public announcement.
Murray had the same job back in 2002 when Democrats lost two seats and control of the Senate. She'll also have a difficult task this time around. Republicans only have 10 seats up for re-election in 2012. Two independent senators who caucus with the Democrats are also up for re-election.
Murray just won her fourth term to the Senate by a narrow margin.
© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.