The winner of a Republican primary battle between Ralph Smith and Brandon Bell for Bell's seat in the Virginia Senate may face another challenge this November.

Michael Breiner, a Roanoke County plastic surgeon, has filed his papers with the Virginia State Board of Elections to run as a Democrat.

The Virginia Public Access Project, a nonprofit group that tracks campaign funding in state races, lists Breiner as a challenger to Bell. In addition, Breiner's campaign released a statement indicating that an official announcement will come soon.

"As a physician, he would bring a unique perspective to the General Assembly that is needed and vital for the citizens of the 22nd District and all of South West Virginia," wrote Breiner's campaign manager Gena Doyle.

Breiner could not be reached for comment Monday because he was working on surgeries most of the day.

Breiner, 47, runs his own medical practice, Southwest Virginia Center for Cosmetic, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He has a wife and two children.

Incumbent Bell, R-Roanoke County, said he wasn't surprised to see a Democrat enter the race considering the state party's chairman, former Del. Richard Cranwell, lives in the district.

"I knew they'd probably have someone," Bell said. "The Democrats are trying to take back control of the Senate."

Smith, meanwhile, downplayed Breiner's potential effect on the race.

"I think most that are familiar with the issue feel that the decision will be made on June 12 in the Republican primary," Smith said. "Of course until you have an election, you don't know who's victorious."

Doyle said Breiner will provide more information on his campaign plans in coming weeks.

Former governor to appear for Ware

Former Virginia Gov. Douglas Wilder will be in Roanoke today to stump for incumbent Del. Onzlee Ware.

Ware, D-Roanoke, faces an intraparty primary challenge from former Roanoke City Councilman Mac McCadden.

Wilder, now the mayor of Richmond, will appear with Ware from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Dumas Center for Artistic & Cultural Development in historic Gainsboro.

The event will be a private fundraiser for Ware. Its sponsors include Virginia Tech President Charles Steger and Roanoke-area businessmen Warner Dalhouse, Bittle Porterfield and Duke Curtis.

McCadden, meanwhile, will hold an 11 a.m. press conference today at the CRC Health Group's methadone treatment clinic at Hershberger and Cove roads.

According to a press release, McCadden will talk about legislation affecting the treatment center and how it will affect local residents.