Wanted: Lieutenant Governor. Apply Online.

By Anthonia Akitunde in News on Feb 27, 2010 10:00PM

Illinois Democrats are no different from the average employer looking for a qualified candidate: they're hitting the web to solicit applications. Dems started an "online open casting call for applicants interested in serving as Gov. Pat Quinn's running mate in November," , the Tribune reports.

The move comes weeks after Scott Lee Cohen, who won the nomination for lieutenant governor in the Feb. 2 primary, stepped down amid claims of domestic and drug abuse from his wife and ex-girlfriend. By having an open call, Democrats hope to vet potential candidates in advance to avoid the same type of embarrassing revelations that came with Cohen.

To apply, candidates must send in their resume, background information and a short questionnaire that can be found online at the Illinois Democrats website. The document features five questions targeting the candidate's beliefs ("Why are you a democrat?") and goals for the state ("What do you believe are the greatest challenges facing the State of Illinois and areas of greatest opportunity?"). All applicant's information will be posted on the site, the report said.

But just like with every other job, getting the application in is only the first step. House Speaker Michael Madigan said "he plans a two-day process in which the central committee will hold a hearing to discuss the post with some of the job seekers and vote on a choice the next day," the Tribune reports.hj

[Trib]