Yes, I think that Durbin will retire in 2014. He replaced Paul Simon, who retired, after two terms. Durbin will decide that three terms will be enough.
I agree that Republicans should have candidates for all seven statewide offices, next year. About two weeks ago, I sent you my suggestions, for gov., lt. gov., and treasurer. Whom do you suggest? If Attorney General Madigan runs for governor, which Republican should run for attorney general? I heard that St. Sen. Dan Cronin, who represents part of DuPage Co., is a conservative lawyer. He was elected to a four-year term, in 2008, so he could run, statewide, in ‘10, without leaving his current seat.
Hopefully Harry Reid will be defeated in 2010 and Durbin would a favorite to be the new rat leader (perhaps he’d be opposed for being from the same state as the hurts to type this President). Would he really walk away from that power? I hope he leaves, it would surprise me.
I haven’t thought about who for LT Guv/Comptroller/Treasurer or Sec of state much. You’re likely more knowledgeable than I about the various state legislators.
Your idea of looking at Senators who’s terms are not up is a good one.
Cronin is a conservative, if is he’s a lawyer he would fit there well. I mentioned I wouldn’t be opposed to Birkett taking another shot, you disagreed with going with someone who’s lost before. Any GOP State’s Attorneys from Large counties might be worth a look.
“About two weeks ago, I sent you my suggestions, for gov., lt. gov., and treasurer. “
I think that was over a month ago actually! Sorry I can’t find the post and don’t recall your picks.
There’s a blog about running Tom Cross for Governor. No thanks to that. It’s vital we have a good candidate for Governor, I think you may have mentioned Tim Johnson and I wasn’t enamored with that.
I’m thinking it should be not be a congressman but a state legislator or some such, no one who has been distracted by federal politics. I think you mentioned a particular state senator.
I wish I voted for Senator Brady in the last primary instead of Oberweis. Oby is a failure as a candidate. It’s a real pity the vote was split enough to allow Topinka to win.
One thing I think would be good is regional balance. One from down south, one from the west, one from DuPage, one from Cook. Ect. It would contrast with all the (D-Chicago)s. But where they’re from is secondary to qualifications and appeal.