Despite its heavy Republican lean in Presidential contests, national and local Democrats are hoping to make a serious play for the district of retiring Congressman Terry Everett (R-AL).

Among those considering the race is Montgomery Mayor Bobby Bright, a self-described independent with ties to the state Democratic Party. Bright, who recently was re-elected with nearly 60% of the vote in a crowded field, told the Associated Press that he has been approached by both Democrats and Republicans to run for the seat. DCCC Chairman Chris Van Hollen called Bright "an A Team candidate" and added that the committee had been hoping to recruit him for a while, in preparation for Everett's retirement.

Also considering the race is state Agriculture Commissioner Ron Sparks, a strong statewide vote-getter who was recruited but ultimately passed on challenging Republican Sen. Jeff Sessions next year. "I need to take time to look at the situation," Sparks said.