FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) - There's a doctor, two wealthy businessmen,
a lawyer, an over-the-road trucker and a warehouse employee who
also works part-time at a convenience store.

Some are political newcomers, while a couple have experience in
waging statewide campaigns. U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell, Kentucky's
senior senator, is facing no shortage of candidates looking to
challenge the Republican leader in this year's elections.

"I'm seeing so much mismanagement, I know I can do a better
job," said Daniel Essek, the truck driver challenging McConnell in
the GOP primary. "We are losing our liberties and the only way to
combat the bondage that the government's wanting to put us in is to
promote liberty and freedom."

Seven Democrats are seeking the nomination in the May 20
primary, while Essek is the lone Republican challenger in the race
against McConnell. An eighth Democrat, Andrew Horne, dropped out of
the race but remains on the ballot. Most of the candidates have
little or no campaign money and face long odds.

Candidates Bruce Lunsford and Greg Fischer, two wealthy
businessmen from Louisville, have gained the most exposure. They've
run television ads and have more sophisticated campaigns compared
to the other Democrats involved.

Fundraising for Kentucky's Senate race so far has been divided
between those with formidable cash reserves and those without.