CENTREVILLE -- State Sen. Andy Harris (R-Cockeysville) said Monday he'll be running for Maryland's 1st Congressional District seat again in 2010, according to Queen Anne's County Republican Central Committee member Diana Waterman.

"Andy said Monday night he's gonna run again," Waterman said at Wednesday's Central Committee meeting at the Centreville Public Library.

Harris briefly attended a fundraiser at Savage Mill for the Senate Republican caucus on Monday. One central committee member argued Harris probably didn't mean it literally and was simply reacting confidently to a warm round of applause. Another pointed out it was too early for him to make an official decision.

Harris said earlier this month that he had not ruled out a 2010 rematch against incoming U.S. Rep. Frank Kratovil (R-Stevensville), who defeated him by only a few thousand votes for the 1st District seat. The district is seen as Republican leaning, but Kratovil benefited from a strong and active endorsement from outgoing U.S. Rep. Wayne Gilchrest (R-Kennedyville), a favorable national climate, high turnout, and a disciplined and effective campaign.

Harris isn't the only Republican to have his name kicked around as a potential opponent to Kratovil in 2010. Republican Delegates Steven Schuh and Jeannie Haddaway are seen as possible contenders along with state Sen. E.J. Pipkin (R-Stevensville). Former Gov. Bob Ehrlich (R-Baltimore) and his wife Kendell Ehrlich are also seen as potential challengers, but don't live in district. In addition, Ehrlich hasn't ruled out a 2010 rematch against Gov. Martin O'Malley.