The ripple from Senator Zell Miller’s departure continues. So far, Congressman Johnny Isakson and Congressman Mac Collins have decided to give up their seats for a shot at the United States Senate. The result has been a steady stream of Republican members from the Georgia General Assembly.

So far, the list of Congressional wannabes in the Sixth Congressional District is impressive. Senator Robert Lamutt was the first to jump into the fray and has made it clear the he is prepared to spend the money and time to be a first tier contender in the race. Undoubtedly, his connections with the old Newt Gingrich team combined with his steady but solid approach to building political infrastructure should serve him well.

Joining in the contest is Georgia Senate Majority Leader Tom Price. Being the only candidate from Fulton County should provide him with a significant edge in locking up a spot in any runoff in the race. His service as Majority Leader in the Georgia Senate should also give him a head start in fundraising and endorsements. His background as doctor should provide some important networking capabilities for both fundraising and support.

Adding to the mix will be Georgia House Member Roger Hines. Although he does not have either the personal wealth or fundraising connections of Lamutt or Price, Hines does have a battle tested and valuable political commodity – teachers. With his teaching background, Representative Hines should be able to tap into the educator network to build a campaign from the ground up. If anything, last year’s gubernatorial election proved that educators are a formidable political force.

Rounding out the list is Georgia Senator Chuck Clay. Having served as a Minority Leader in the Georgia Senate and as Chairman of the Georgia Republican Party, Clay has a unique cadre of assets. In both positions, he accumulated a sizable amount of political IOUs which could prove invaluable in a primary battle in the Republican Party. Winning Cobb County will be key. But, his longstanding service to and in the Cobb County should provide him with a solid foundation for a serious Congressional run.

In the Eighth Congressional District, the first in will likely be House Minority Leader Lynn Westmoreland. His tireless efforts on behalf of Saxby Chambliss and Sonny Perdue will undoubtedly pay heavy dividends in a Congressional bid. His strength among conservatives will further aid his effort to lock down a spot in any runoff and generate the kind of support necessary to win a General Election.

Senator Seth Harp from Columbus will also likely join the race. Harp has been a steady Republican stalwart for years with continuous service in the Party and Presidential races. He should be able to network the legal community for both fundraising and local access. With Columbus as a base, he will be a factor in the race if not the nominee.

Finally, finishing off the exit from the Georgia Senate will likely be Senator Mike Crotts. He has been a reliable and faithful campaigner for state and local politicians throughout the Eighth Congressional District. Over the years, he has prepared for this race and is among the best positioned for the transition from a Georgia Senate campaign to a Congressional race.