PHOENIX (CBS5) -
It's been a challenging year for Ron Barber.
He was right next Gabby Giffords at her "Congress on Your Corner" event last January.
Barber was shot twice - once in the face and once in the leg.
As Giffords' district director, he's been her biggest advocate ever since the tragic shooting, rooting her on and praying for her recovery.
Now it appears constituents might get a chance to root for Barber.
According to media reports, the Pima County Democratic Party chair expects to hear an announcement from Barber any day now, saying he'll run for Giffords' former seat in Congress.
Political experts said this is big news.
"He would undoubtedly if he chooses to get in, be the front runner," said Dr. Bruce Merrill.
Merrill said Barber's recent history alone would be enough to put him at the top of the list.
But, Merrill said, there's one big question.
"Is she going to endorse somebody? I mean if she endorses somebody, that's who I want to get behind because they would have a very, very strong chance I think to win that seat," Merrill said.
And, Merrill said, it's reasonable to assume if Giffords does give someone her stamp of approval, it would be her former right hand man.
"In essence that person becomes her surrogate," Merrill said.
Copyright 2012 KPHO (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved.
Ron Barber
