The aide, speaking anonymously because Conlin doesn't plan to make a formal announcement until next week, says she will file candidacy papers with the Federal Election Commission next week.

The 65-year-old Conlin was the Democratic gubernatorial nominee in 1982 and has been one of the nation's most prominent trial lawyers, at one point heading the National Trial Lawyer's Association

She acknowledged last month that she was considering running against Grassley, who is seeking a sixth term in the Senate.