After much public consideration, Republican state Sen. Gilbert Baker announced his Senate candidacy Tuesday, adding his name to the growing roster of those hoping to unseat Democratic Sen. Blanche Lincoln.

“After encouragement from people all across the state, and with the support of my family
and close friends, I have decided that during this important time in our nation’s history,
one should not be a political spectator.” Baker said in a statement. “I believe that Arkansas’ next United States senator should help provide checks and balances on the policies being pushed by President Obama and the D.C. leadership.”

Republicans believe Lincoln is vulnerable in 2010 because state voters will reject her support for Democratic policies and her ideology.