The special election to replace Rep. Jane Harman (D-Calif.) already is heating up, with a past candidate challenging Democrats interested in the 36th district seat to declare their anti-war credentials.

Marcy Winograd, a liberal activist and high school teacher who challenged Harman in the 2006 and 2010 Democratic primaries, wrote in a post Tuesday on OpEdNews.com that she is “exploring the possibility” of running for the seat. Winograd, who co-founded the Los Angeles chapter of Progressive Democrats of America, is known for her anti-war stance.

Winograd wrote that she first plans to speak with state Secretary of State Debra Bowen, a potential contender for the special election, before making a decision about her own run.

She said she will ask Bowen “tough questions” on topics including military funding for the war in Afghanistan, Social Security cuts and whether Bowen would support allowing states to pursue single-payer health care, a top issue for liberals.

“I am waiting to ask the tough questions — and to hear courageous answers,” she wrote. “Then I will decide.”

Winograd also noted that City Councilwoman Janice Hahn, who announced Monday she would run, called her for an endorsement.

Winograd asked Hahn about her stance on wars and politics in the Middle East, particularly if she would “not be afraid to criticize Israel.” Winograd wrote that Hahn told her she supports anti-war efforts and that she is “a friend to Israel.”

Winograd also tweeted Tuesday, “We need a progressive voice in DC, someone to challenge expanded wars, be they sponsored by the GOP or Dems. Harman resigns; Free the 36th.”