In Kentucky, Bunning Faces Tough Fight for Senate Seat

Jim Bunning is caught in a veritable Kentucky Derby for his U.S. Senate seat.

The Kentucky Republican, who is seeking a third term in office, is already facing fundraising questions and a growing roster of competitors interested in challenging him for his seat.

And Bunning has made clear that he anticipates a fight.

"I hope and pray I can count on your support in the coming months," he said at a state party fundraiser Saturday night. "The battle is going to be long ... but I am prepared to fight for my values."

Fellow Republicans do not question Bunning's conservative voting record. Instead, they have a more practical concern.

"The only reservation that you hear anybody say about Senator Bunning is ...'Can he win or not?'" said Kentucky state Senate President David Williams, a Republican.

Among the nagging concerns is whether contributors will bet on Bunning. Last month, Bunning's campaign reported having less than $400,000 on hand.

By comparison, Kentucky Lt. Gov. Daniel Mongiardo -- the Democrat Bunning squeaked by in 2004 -- has done better.

"We raised about $430,000 in the last five weeks of the first quarter," Mongiardo said.

Also in the Democratic primary is state Attorney General Jack Conway, who at 39 is described by fellow Democrats as a rising political star -- and is ready to poke fun at Bunning's stern demeanor, for which he is well-known.

"My sincere hope for Jim Bunning is that just once ... just once before he leaves this green earth, he has a good day," Conway said.

Not helping matters, this year Bunning has found himself muddied in a series of verbal gaffes.

He apologized in February for saying U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg would likely be dead of cancer before the end of the year.

And last week he questioned the leadership of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, a fellow Kentucky Republican.

McConnell refused to return fire.

"I've never said anything but the most positive things about my colleague," McConnell said.

Meanwhile, it appears certain that Bunning will face a GOP primary challenge. Kentucky Secretary of State Trey Grayson set up an exploratory committee after getting Bunning's approval.

Cathy Bailey, former U.S. ambassador to Latvia, also is leaning toward getting in the race.

"I want more women to be involved in our party. There is tremendous opportunity and so much talent," she said.

Another likely challenger is Rand Paul, son of Republican Rep. Ron Paul. State Senate President Williams may even throw his name in the ring.

Asked if he's prepared for a contested primary, Bunning -- a veteran of close finishes -- would not say.

FOX News' Steve Brown contributed to this report.