This race is over. Unless there is a primary challenge, Specter is re-elected.
FReepers may want to read through 2004 Senate Election List and Senate Outlook, 2004 Elections before posting questions on this thread to see if they've been covered.
The next big news to come out will be Frank Murkowski's replacement in Alaska, expected today or tomorrow, followed by various "I will run" "I won't run" declarations in the 34 races.
Peter Fitzgerald (R) is up for re-election in 2004. He is a highly independent maverick who votes mostly conservative, Illinois press tags him as the "member of the Senate least-liked by his colleagues.".
In '98 he won against the hapless Carol Mosely Braun. In his self-financed television ads, he never spoke once (he has a very squeaky voice), preferring to rely on voice-overs, and avoided public speaking.
The GOP leadership (If the Illinois GOP can be said to have "leaders") is openly seeking another candidate to replace him.
We lost our chance with Drab Durbin in November, the #1 obstructionist after L'il Tommy. Unfortunately, we picked a candidate, Jim Durkin, who had zero money, no organization, and no discernable personality, Furthermore, he tied his hopes to the useless "star" of John McCain, who made exactly one 45 minute visit to Illinois for his young loyalist.