At least five people are considering challenging William Delahunt for the 10th Congressional District seat he has held since 1997.

Three former and current politicians are contemplating throwing their hats in the ring: former Treasurer Joe Malone of Scituate, Senator Robert Hedlund of Weymouth, and Representative Jeffrey Davis Perry of Sandwich. Two newcomers to the political scene are also eying the seat: Don Hussey of Hingham and Ray Kasperowicz of Cohasset.

Vincent Cogliano, the chairman of the Plymouth County Republican Committee, said Hedlund and Malone are being encouraged to run against Delahunt.

Cogliano expects a big turnout Saturday at a breakfast meeting held for 2010 candidates to introduce themselves.

Delahunt hasn't faced a serious challenge since he first won the Democratic primary by edging out Phil Johnston of Marshfield in 1996.