It should also be noted that I said Fitz was the most popular Republican. That might be a reflection on other statewide Republicans as much as on Fitz.
I just returned from the NW Suburban Republican picnic. Jim Ryan's staff got quite a few people to put on Jim Ryan shirts. But a lot of people also said "No thanks" to his button or shirt. (Nobody that I know of refused one for Topinka, Birkett or Cohn.)
Jim Ryan's staff told people that Jim Ryan would arrive and speak at 3 pm. They waited and waited. He did not show up until the day's final event, the raffle, and after most people had left. Jim Ryan gave a stock speach. There was polite applause from some. Many people who were convinced to wear a Jim Ryan shirt (and whose hands were free and not holding a drink or corn) did not applaud, not even politely.
Jim Ryan (or his wife, or somebody) should have been there all afternoon shaking hands and trying to line up support. He has no where to go but up. So he need not be too cautious. If he doesn't try to get this Republican vote, where will he? If he doesn't try to help himself, why should us volunteers?
That the LP petition challenge was dropped immediately after McDougal became Chair is a good sign that some intelligence does exist. The glass is half full and half empty. 2003, 2004 actually look good. But a lot smarter race needs to be run for 2002.
PS, I'm listening to Tom Roeser while I type this. Reports from the picnic are interesting.
His speech was indeed lackluster. He shows no fire in the belly and seems to be totally clueless as to what it will take to win this election. I'm about ready to just hit fast the forward button, and skip to December in order to avoid the carnage of the next few months.