Policy consultant plans to challenge McCarthy

[Freddie Stubbs]

U.S. Rep. Karen McCarthy of Missouri apparently will be challenged in next year's Democratic primary.

Damian Thorman, a public policy consultant, said Wednesday he plans to run against McCarthy, a Kansas City Democrat who has vowed to seek a sixth term in 2004.

"Like many Democrats, I'm enormously disturbed about the Bush agenda and what's happening to the country," Thorman said. "And I hear really nothing but silence from the current incumbent."

McCarthy, who underwent treatment for alcoholism this year, has faced questions about high staff turnover and missed votes. Another potential challenger is Democrat Jamie Metzl, a fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington.

more: http://www.kansascity.com/mld/kansascitystar/news/politics/6685308.htm

[goobergunch]

1. This is a safe Democratic seat...

however, McCarthy may be vulnerable to a primary challenge because of the alcoholism thing.