Lingle considering run for US Senate

Gov. Linda Lingle announced plans to take six months off before deciding whether to run for the U.S. Senate in 2012.

The Republican governor, who leaves office Dec. 6 after two four-year terms, said she would then give serious consideration to a campaign against U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka. She also has said she would consider a role in national GOP politics.

Lingle raised a record $6 million in her re-election campaign in 2006. She likely would need to raise between $3 million and $6 million to take on Akaka, who would be expected to get national help from Democrats and labor unions.

The 86-year-old Akaka has said he intends to campaign for a fifth six-year term.