David Cicilline has announced he will try for a third term.  Here's the big question: Who will run against him?  From reading today's Providence Journal, I would be shocked if Councilman John Lombardi didn't run.  He seems to be in the process of getting organized, and he seems serious.  Joe Paolino has also shown some interest, but I have my doubts.  He could be a strong candidate, but he doesn't seem fired-up about the possibility.  Last, we have Christopher Young, who announced over the weekend.

     That leaves us with four potential candidates for the Democratic primary.  I'm worried that I haven't seen any speculation about Republican possibilities.  Cicilline has a tough road ahead, and I wouldn't be surprised to see him lose in the primary.  One thing that could prevent someone from running is the amount of money raised by David Cicilline so far: More than $720,000.  That is a large amount, but in a tough primary, you would see that get depleted quickly.  Also, with Cicilline, Paolino, and Lombardi potentially running in the primary, it will be tougher to raise more since you have 3 established candidates vying for the same pool of donors.  

     A tough primary is good for the Republican candidate.  The important thing is to get someone who will declare early and begin raising funds immediately.  If the incumbent is defeated, and a primary weakens the winner, a well-financed candidate would have an excellent chance.  All we need to do now is find that candidate.