Springer, 55, says he may run as a Democratic challenger to Senator Mike DeWine, who is up for re-election next year.

BBC's Steve Futterman: His candidacy has sparked all sorts of humorous asides in the press

Springer began his political career as a Cincinnati city councilman in 1971 but was forced to resign three years later after imprudently paying a prostitute with a personal cheque.

But he bounced back to become mayor of Cincinnati and ran for governor in 1982 before turning to TV.

His show, which launched in 1991, is notorious for its on-screen bust-ups leading to fist fights and family feuds among guests.

Trashy content

The Jerry Springer Show, which has made him very wealthy, is now syndicated around the world.

But the show has been criticised for its content, exploitation and violence, and it has been accused of staging the on-screen bust-ups.

Typical episodes include themes of wives who cheat with their sisters-in-law and transexuals who think they've made a big mistake.

Mr DeWine is a former prosecutor whose low-key earnestness led colleagues to choose him to preside over Monica Lewinsky's deposition in President Bill Clinton's impeachment trial.

Springer said he will decide whether he intends to run by Labor Day early next month.

The deadline is not until 7 January, but to run a campaign, Springer would have to deal with residency - he lives in Chicago - and work out what to do with his show.