I would love to see a republican in the seat. It would give the dems and media anxiety attacks. The large Jewish population could be a problem unless they are friends to Israel.
Ulrich's a comer..he wouldn't have to resign his council seat to run in the special election, and it would give him a lot of publicity..elevate his profile. OTOH, if he won the election, his district will disappear, and he'll be left without ANY position, nor any viable opening..
I suspect he'll run...if he wins, and then loses his district due to redistricting, he can be promised some position in DC...House, or WH