GOP Senate primary could have a familiar look

The Republican primary for U.S. Senate could take on a familiar feel in May if state Sen. Mike Delph enters the race.

Delph is considering joining State Treasurer Richard Mourdock in challenging Sen. Richard Lugar in 2012.

The two are familiar opponents. They faced off in 2002 in a battle that ultimately put Todd Rokita in the secretary of state's office.

Mourdock has won support from conservatives disenchanted by Lugar's voting record. But a Delph entry into the race could split that vote and carry a highly vulnerable Lugar to victory.

It's happened in Indiana before. Rep. Dan Burton won with 30 percent of the vote in a crowded 2010 Republican primary in which rivals argued it was time for him to go.