Democrats must grapple with their own primaries in Montana and Hawaii, where former GOP Rep. Charles Djou is likely to announce after the holidays. He will be the underdog but could capitalize if a Democratic feud between incumbent Sen. Brian Schatz, appointed by the governor after Sen. Dan Inouye’s death, and Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, favored by the late senator’s widow — leaves the victor hobbled.

UPDATE: Hawaii Republican Party Chairman David Chang told Civil Beat that Djou “ still hasn’t made a decision yet.” Meanwhile, Djou’s website only has this message concerning a Senate run, dated April 23:

My wife Stacey and I want to thank all of you who have encouraged me to run for office again, particularly in light of a special election for the US Senate, an open seat for the US House and a state government desperately in need of new leadership. 

My family and I have not yet made any final decision on running for office next year, but we look forward toward continuing to listen to you and finding the best way to most effectively make a positive difference for our community and our country. Aloha.

Photo: Former Rep. Charles Djou. (Courtesy)

—Chad Blair