[thackney]

There is still “hope”.

Ping

[bcsco]

He’s viewed as more part of Chicago than he is part of Illinois.

Well, duh! Also, his polling is strong in Chicago proper, but weaker in the 'burbs. Another duh!

Finally, I hate it when they say Chicago, vs "downstate". It's as if Chicago comprises the entire northern area of Illinois. It's not "downstate" but the rest of Illinois outside Chicago (except for a few liberal pockets of course). I live outside the Chicago metro area, including the 'burbs, and I'm sure not downstate. I'm 50 miles south (maybe less) of the Wisconsin border.