When former congressmen are also-rans

Former Rep. Merrill Cook (R-Utah) is running for office again. This time he is joining the race for Sen. Robert Bennett's (R-Utah) seat.

Though a former member of Congress, Cook likely won't be taken too seriously, given his erratic political career. He has transitioned between running as a Republican and independent and has sought office unsuccessfully several times since leaving Congress.

Cook, who served two terms in Congress last decade, most recently lost at the GOP nominating convention in a bid to win his old 2nd district seat in 2008.

Attorney Mike Lee, former congressional candidate Tim Bridgewater and activist Cherilyn Eager are Bennett's more serious opponents.