Jim Edgar, Can You Hear Me?

By Rachelle Bowden in News on Aug 23, 2005 8:40PM

Once upon a time (let’s say 1990), in a magical land called Illinois, a Republican named Jim Edgar was elected governor. Jim was so popular, and so centrist, even Democrats respected him! He was easily elected to another term, and the Republicans were so happy. But one day (let’s say 1998), Jim decided to retire from politics, and the Republicans were very sad. After that, the Republicans were forced to endure the scandalous governorship of their own George Ryan, and the rule of a Democrat whose name is hard to spell and pronounce, so we will call him Blago. If only Jim Edgar could come back and save his party!

Edgar has expressed interest in wanting to return to the governor’s mansion and return respect to Illinois Republicans, but he has not yet committed himself to the 2006 race. Bob Turner, President of the Illinois Republican County Chairmen’s Association, is sending a letter to Edgar urging him to make up his mind. Other Republican potential candidates, including state Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka, would like to know Edgar’s intentions before entering the race themselves. The thought is that Edgar probably offers the best chance of unseating Rod Blagojevich, and many Republican hopefuls will back off if Edgar throws his hat in the ring.

If Edgar is up to the challenge, he will face an opponent who has already come out swinging. Blagojevich spokesperson Pete Giangreco recently wrote an article saying that Blago’s record over just three years in office is superior to Edgar’s two terms as governor. If Turner really wants to get Edgar to make up his mind and enter the race, maybe he should send him Giangreco’s article, entitled, "Bring It On." Wow, this is getting good. Next thing you know, Giangreco will accuse Edgar of being a cheer-tator just like Kirsten Dunst. Bring it on? We can only hope Edgar’s camp responds with its own article called, "Oh, It’s Already Been Broughten!"

Thanks, Amy!