Regrets, they've had a few

Many Democrats are celebrating tonight that Sen. Elizabeth Dole looks to be defeated.

But a few may have some regrets.

That would be: State Rep. Grier Martin and U.S. Rep. Brad Miller, who were openly recruited to run against Dole earlier this year and took a pass.

Others who had been under consideration: Attorney General Roy Cooper, Gov. Mike Easley and state Treasurer Richard Moore.

Moore, who lost a contentious Democratic primary to Lt. Gov. Beverly Perdue, would have been a particularly strong candidate given the recent economic troubles.

Still, there's no discounting the role that gender may have played. Any of the men above might have faced a trickier time running against Dole.

Other long shots: Retired Gen. Hugh Shelton and First Lady Mary Easley.