Personally, I don't think Alan Keyes would ever have a chance at President. But, just to play devil's advocate, losing the Illinois Senate race isn't always a sign at presidential abilities . . . just look at Abraham Lincoln who lost the IL Senate race to Stephen Douglas 2 years before being elected president!
Keyes has 17% of the Illinois vote in the latest poll.
Lincoln at least won at least one elective office before the presidency. Keyes will be oh for five.