A Hanover venture capitalist is laying the groundwork to challenge freshman Rep. Paul Hodes (D) in 2008.

Stephen Gray (R) has been making the rounds and reaching out to friends and associates to explore the feasibility of a 2nd district run.

He met with officials at the National Republican Congressional Committee last week.

Gray has not declared his candidacy, nor has he formed a campaign committee. He is expected to make a decision some time next month.

Gray — whose father was the late L. Patrick Gray, who served as interim director of the FBI during the height of the Watergate scandal — never before has sought public office.

In his second try, Hodes wrested his seat from then-Rep. Charles Bass (R) in November.

— Nicole Duran