What Jim Kyle's withdraw says about the state of Tennessee Democrats

So news came yesterday that Jim Kyle has pulled out of Tennessee's gubernatorial race. This is odd because he was considered by many to be the leading contender.

What does it mean when a leading contender drops out of a primary? It means that your party has no chance in hell of winning the general election.

As others have pointed out, we're left with a race for a sacrificial lamb - a Bob Tuke, if you will. McWherter is about as exciting as a starched white shirt. McMillian is accomplished, but does not have the fundraising prowess necessary to adequately fund a statewide race. Sen. Kyle's withdraw has virtually assured a Republican victory in November.