ROCKVILLE -- Kevin Zeese, a Montgomery County activist who served as chief spokesman for Ralph Nader during his 2004 bid for president, said today he has launched a committee to explore a possible run for the U.S. Senate in 2006.

Zeese, an independent, said in a statement that his exploratory committee includes Democrats, Republicans and "the alternative parties, as well as the anti-war, pro-democracy, environmental and justice movements."

Zeese is director of Democracy Rising, an anti-war group. He said his campaign will include supporters from the Green, Populist and Libertarian parties.

Three Democrats -- former congressman Kweisi Mfume, U.S. Rep. Benjamin Cardin and activist A. Robert Kaufman -- are running for the seat of the retiring U.S. Sen. Paul Sarbanes.

Lt. Gov. Michael S. Steele, a Republican, is also considering a run.

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