Rep. Bachmann challenger hints at rematch

Minnesota Democrat Tarryl Clark is showing signs of preparing for another challenge to Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.).

The state senator sent an e-mail to her supporters Thursday urging them to donate to Rep. Keith Ellison (D-Minn.). The team-player move — Ellison won reelection by some 40 points — might be aimed at shoring up her party support ahead of 2012.

"As we regroup and recommit ourselves to organizing for victories in 2012, I would like to take a moment to ask you to join me in thanking my friend — and one of our campaign's greatest supporters — Congressman Keith Ellison," she wrote. "Keith has been a progressive voice not just for Minnesota families but for the millions across the country — and the globe — who are without a voice in Washington."

If Clark does decide to run again, she’ll definitely need all the fundraising help she can get. Bachmann raised $13.2 million in the 2010 cycle and has $1.97 million in the bank, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune, citing her latest Federal Election Commission filing.

Clark raised about $4.5 million for the cycle, according to her pre-election FEC filing.

Bachmann defeated Clark by about 13 points last cycle.