Kirk wouldn't run against Durbin. Kirk is eyeing the Governorship in 2010 and he would have a good chance of winning the Governorship. The media loves Kirk for being an independent thinker who listens to real people, not the Far Right.
As for reclaiming the IL-08, Kathy Salvi would be good to take on Bean. However, there is a state rep. in the district, Bob Churchill, who bears a huge grudge against the Salvi family. In 1998, Al Salvi beat Bob Churchill in the primary for Secretary of State. Churchill spread rumors about Salvi being a RINO. Then in 2000, Al Salvi's brother tried to run for state rep. in McHenry County. Churchill again spread the rumors. The Dem won in McHenry County. If Kathy Salvi is the nominee, expect Bob Churchill to throw a sour grapes tanturm again.
Kirk for Governor ? Please tell me that is a joke. As for being an independent thinker, I'd say more he outsources his thinking to the rodents. Is there any legitimate candidate outside the Combine who isn't a RINO twit ?
As for the Salvi-Churchill feud, just once again proves the IL GOP isn't ready for primetime. Ridiculous.