Illinois 2010: Who's doing what now?

By Kate Gardiner in News on Jul 10, 2009 2:40PM

It's exciting times in Illinois politics - and almost impossible to keep track of the players. The 2010 election, about eight months out at this point features three key races - and enough plot twists to keep even the most well-informed political junkie interested.

The US Senate:
Likely to be the most exciting race this year due to a diverse - and wide open - field. A "minor headache" - incumbent lame duck Sen. Roland Burris - is expected to formally announce today that he is not seeking reelection, due to his lack of funds, and the fact that he cannot get anyone to work with him (scandals, anyone?).

But if Burris bows out, who's left? Well. Everyone ... except Lisa Madigan, of course. Candidates Mark Kirk (R), Chris McKenna, Chris Kennedy, Cheryle Jackson, and Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias. While "Big G" is probably the front runner, the GOP is mostly backing Mark Kirk, who seems to be doing well, for a Republican in Illinois ... Meanwhile, The Machine is suffering ongoing technical difficulties.

The Governorship:
Once upon a time, Lil' Lisa was going for it. Gov. Madigan has always had a nice ring to it (just ask her dad) in Illinois, and, well, everyone was backing her. Instead, she's wondering about the well-being of her family (speaking of bells ringing) and apparently, if she's ready for such a big step. Apparently she's not - and the heavyweight that limits her ambitions as much as he facilitates them (Hi Dad!) is only getting worse as he's getting older.

But who does that leave us? Oh right, the Governor. Remember him? Pat Quinn may still be rooting around for money to solve his budget problems - while desperately trying to limit the parallels drawn between his administration and that of his predecessor - but he has developed something of a reputation... and no one really hates him.

We can't forget about Dan Hynes either - the Illinois Comptroller is champing at the bit for the chance to climb into a role people actually understand (what does he really do, anyway?) and an office with a public image. Any image.

And if you don't like them, there's always Republican Kirk Dillard. He's one of five Republicans who have either joined the race or expressed interest in running.

But What About The Illinois Attorney General's Office?
By announcing her choice, Madigan's basically reelected herself. That's fine and dandy- but what about poor GOP candidate Joe Birkett, who announced last week he's running for the seat. It's pretty much hopeless, unless something bad happens....and bad things never happen in Illinois.