On a day when most politicians were taking a wait-and-see attitude about the political fate of U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, Mayor Scott McAdams -- the Democratic contender for the seat -- began running against Joe Miller.

At a press conference Wednesday at Alaska Democratic Party headquarters in Anchorage, the little-known Sitka mayor began establishing himself as the candidate with the most political experience and public service, the best of the two novice politicos to serve Alaska in the United States Senate.

"Yesterday, Alaskans sent an important message. They're ready for change," he said. "I am that change, not Joe Miller."

McAdams cited eight years in public office -- he's been mayor for two years and spent six years on the Sitka School Board -- as putting him political light years ahead of Miller, who has never been elected to office. And, he pointed out, Miller ran and lost a legislative race.

"I'm the only candidate in this race who's ever balanced a budget," McAdams said. "I'm the only candidate in this race who ever voted on a budget. I am by far the most experienced candidate in this race."

He acknowledged that he's largely unknown throughout the state, but shrugged it off as something that's easily overcome.

"On the first of June, Joe Miller was a relative unknown, but I can guarantee you by the time November comes around, Scott McAdams will be a known name in the state of Alaska," he said.

McAdams also dismissed suggestions that the Democratic Party might be looking to replace him on the ballot with a more well-known candidate who would have a better chance at defeating Miller and his Tea Party backers.

The buzz on the Internet Wednesday was that McAdams might withdraw for personal reasons which, under state law, would allow the party to pick a replacement. Suggested replacements included former Gov. Tony Knowles, who last ran for office in the 2006 gubernatorial race against Sarah Palin, and state Sen. Hollis French, who lost in Tuesday's gubernatorial primary to Ethan Berkowitz.

McAdams said he was not withdrawing and no one had contacted him about it.

Political experts aren't so sure that will continue to be the case. "The balance in the Senate could be at issue here," noted veteran pollster and consultant Dave Dittman. "When control of the Senate is at stake there's a tremendous amount of pressure they can bring upon the mayor of Sitka."

Contact Patti Epler at patti(at)alaskadispatch.com.