RALEIGH, N.C. – Democrats in North Carolina are expanding their search for a Senate challenger after one party prospect pulled his name from consideration.

North Carolina Rep. Heath Shuler said Tuesday he wanted to spend his time focusing on reviving the economy rather than campaigning statewide against Republican Sen. Richard Burr. Burr faces re-election next year.

Political consultant Morgan Jackson said Attorney General Roy Cooper, who is considering the job, probably won’t decide on a Senate run for a few more months.

Several others have been mentioned as prospects but have remained mum. Both Secretary of State Elaine Marshall and former State Treasurer Richard Moore said they have no plans but didn’t want to rule anything out.