Kirby announcing on Monday whether he is running against Johnson Eds: APNewsNow.

By MARY CLARE JALONICK Associated Press Writer Washington (AP) Republican Steve Kirby says he will announce on Monday whether he is challenging South Dakota Sen. Tim Johnson this November.

Kirby could be the Republicans party's best hope against Johnson, a two-term Democrat who suffered a debilitating brain hemorrhage in December 2006. Gov. Mike Rounds has shown no interest in a race.

Republicans have generally shied away from criticizing Johnson since his return to the Senate last August, and the three Republicans who are challenging him are neither well-funded nor well-known.

Kirby, who lost a 2002 primary for governor, is a wealthy businessman who potentially could fund a Senate race. He says he has been talking to people in South Dakota and in Washington who are trying to recruit him.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 03-06-08 1610CST | save this article / add to your favorites list