State Sen. R.C. Soles Jr., the longest serving lawmaker, is considering not running again.

Soles is surrounded by controversy. His shooting of an intruder, and rumors and allegations about his relationships with young men have left the Senate fixture, a Democrat from Columbus County, thinking seriously about calling it quits, the Fayetteville Observer reports.

"I've certainly served in Raleigh a long time," he said. "If I never served another day, it's been a wonderful ride and rewarding, and I hope that I've done a few things that have been good and constructive."

There is quiet interest among Democrats for Soles' seat, should he chose not to run. Former state Rep. David Redwine of Brunswick County said recently he has been asked to seek the seat, but would not consider running if Soles is a candidate.

Republicans, who have been unable to unseat Soles despite serious attempts over the years, have been less reticent.

Bettie Fennell, a former newspaper reporter from Pender County, last month announced her plans to run again for the seat. The state Senate district includes Columbus, Brunswick and Pender counties. 

Republicans have high hopes in nine state Senate races.

Jim Blaine, director of the N.C. Senate Republican Committee, gave Dome a breakdown of the races he thinks the GOP will do well in, based on the filings so far.

Fifth: Rep. Louis Pate Jr., a Republican, faces the winner of a five-way Democratic primary for the open seat of retiring Democratic Sen. John Kerr.

Eighth: Former Wilmington Star-News reporter Bettie Fennell, a Republican, faces Democratic Sen. R.C. Soles Jr. in a district that is changing demographically.

Ninth: Wilmington attorney Michael Lee, a Republican, has filed to run against Democratic Sen. Julia Boseman, who has not yet filed for re-election.

24th: Commercial real estate broker Rick Gunn Jr., a Republican, squares off against Democratic Sen. Tony Foriest.

43rd: Realtor Kathy Harrington, wife of former Rep. Michael Harrington, faces Democratic Sen. David Hoyle in a district that leans Republican.

45th: Boone dentist Jerry Butler has signed up to face Democratic Sen. Steve Goss. Other Republicans may file in this race as well.

46th: State Rep. Debbie Clary, a Republican, faces either Phil Clark or Keith Melton for the seat of Democratic Sen. Walter Dalton, who is running for lieutenant governor.

47th: Former state Sen. Keith Presnell, a Republican, faces Democratic Sen. Joe Sam Queen in a seemingly never-ending grudge match.

50th: Republican Susan C. Pons, who works at a Christian training center, faces Democratic Sen. John Snow.