This comes from the Chicago Tribune, registration required, but is free.
Unlike the Ditka balloon, there may be something to this draft movement in regards to next year's governor's race in Illinois. Democrat Paul Vallas ran a strong campaign in 2002, but his effort fell short and the party's nomination went to Rod Blagojevich, who ended up winning the race for the governor's mansion. Of course, Governor Rod never moved into that mansion, something that will be remembered among downstate voters when election time comes next year.
Paul Vallas was once in charge of the Chicago Public Schools and received widespread praise while he was the top guy there; he now holds the same position in Philadelphia.
As to why there may be more than hot air to this "draft of wind" from the east? Paul's brother Dean is behind this effort. Dean Vallas is confident that he can work around the residency requirement; Paul of course now lives in Philadelphia.
But this we're talking about Illinois. Miracles can happen.
The real issue of course is this: If Vallas does run, who will Blagojevich's father-in-law, Dick Mell support? Richard Mell is to Rod Blagojevich, what Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry was to William Shatner. The latters would be complete unknowns were it not for the formers.
But Mell and his creation have been publicly feuding for months.
2 comments:
Hi, John,
I heard on Don & Roma's show on WLS that Mr. Vallas was not interested in running for any office at the moment. He sounded pretty confident that he would stay in Philadelphia until his contract runs out next year.
Probably they're right. But six months ago, a primary challenge by anyone against Rod would've been unthinkable. So don't rule it out.
Personally, I'd like to see Dick Mell run against Blagojevich.
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