Sen. Richard Lugar to Seek Re-election in 2012

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican Sen. Richard Lugar plans to seek a re-election in 2012.

Lugar spokesman Mark Helmke said Tuesday that Lugar plans to run a vigorous campaign and is committed to winning a seventh term representing Indiana in the Senate.

That effort has already begun. Lugar plans to return to Indiana on Friday for a major fundraiser in Carmel, outside of Indianapolis. Helmke says the six-term senator has already raised more than $320,000.

Lugar has carved out a bipartisan reputation during his years in Washington, working with Democrats on a variety of issues, particularly foreign policy initiatives. That could make him vulnerable to a potential challenge from a Tea Party challenger on the right.