In June, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee named the John Dicks campaign for the 9th Congressional District as one of the top emerging races for 2008.

But Dicks was edged out of the Democratic primary in August by Tampa lawyer Bill Mitchell, and now the Democratic House campaign organization its turning attention to Mitchell. In their latest picks for emerging races - those believed to be gaining steam and generating excitement - Mitchell has made the list.

Mitchell will take on Republican incumbent Gus Bilirakis, former Tarpon Springs police officer John “Johnny K” Kalimnios, and New Port Richey business owner Richard O. Emmons in the general election next month.

Rita Farlow, Times staff writer

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