A half-dozen Kentucky political operatives, former lawmakers and fundraisers contacted by The Hill said she had not been in touch with them, and that they had not heard from others that she was putting feelers out for a run.
Judd has also offered no indication she’ll be moving back to Kentucky anytime soon, something strategists in the state say must be the first step for the actress, who grew up in the state but calls Tennessee her home.
Their frustration with Judd may be more a reflection of an overall perception in the state that McConnell is weak, but no challenger has yet to emerge.
“Whoever runs against him is gonna have a bloody nose. I do think he’s vulnerable against the right candidate, but the right candidate has to reflect all of Kentucky, not just parts of Kentucky,” former Democratic Senate candidate Daniel Mongiardo told The Hill.
