Another sign 2012 election underway

Here is another sign the 2012 election cycle is underway. The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee on Tuesday put out its first attack press release for the upcoming Nevada campaign.
   
"Embattled Senator John Ensign heads into re-election campaign under dark ethical cloud," was the headline of the press release calling attention to editorials in the New York Times and Las Vegas Sun critical of the incumbent.

Ensign has said he is running for re-election in 2012 even as he admitted to an extramarital affair and as the Senate ethics committee continues to investigate. The Department of Justice said last week it has halted a separate probe.

Meanwhile, Washington pundit Charlie Cook put out his initial handicapping of the 2012 Senate races. He lists Ensign's seat as a toss-up.