Booker files FEC campaign papers

Newark, N.J., Mayor Cory Booker (D) has filed official papers with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) establishing his campaign committee, even though he has not yet officially announced he is running for the U.S. Senate in 2014.

"Cory Booker for Senate" was launched on Jan. 8, when the FEC received the forms.

Candidates often start campaign committees simply to make it possible for them to raise funds for a potential bid. Although it's not a definite signal that Booker is running, the move follows other strong indications Booker has given that he'll be making a run with a solid organization.

Booker announced in a video posted online that he planned to serve out his term as Newark mayor, but was "explor[ing] the possibility" of running for Sen. Frank Lautenberg's (D-N.J.) seat.

Lautenberg has not yet indicated whether he plans to run for reelection or retire, and Booker's decision to come out this early with his intentions have ruffled some feathers in New Jersey political circles.

Booker said during an interview on CNN that he attempted to meet with the senator but the meeting fell through. During that same interview, Booker said that while he plans to give Lautenberg "the space" to make his own decision, "he's got a decision to make."

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