Former Republican congressman, 'Idol' judge's father to challenge Gillibrand

Former Rep. Joe DioGuardi (R-N.Y.) has decided to challenge Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), according to the Associated Press.

DioGuardi will announce his candidacy Tuesday at Grand Central Station.

An accountant by trade, DioGuardi has written repeatedly about the need to control the nation's debt.

DioGuardi was first elected in 1984 and defeated by Rep. Nita Lowey (D-N.Y.) in 1988. His former district just north of New York City is solidly Democratic.

The Republican is the father of Kara DioGuardi, a judge on American Idol.

Former Bush adviser Dan Senor is reportedly considering a GOP challenge to Gillibrand. Billionaire Mort Zuckerman was also considering a bid but has decided against it.

---