Conservative candidate emerges in Ill. 5th

Shortly after winning reelection in Illinois' 5th Congressional District, Rahm Emanuel announced he would be Barack Obama's chief-of-staff.

There will be a special election to fill the vacancy, primaries will be held on March 3, and the general election will take place on April 7. (We need one of those for Obama's Senate seat, but that's another matter.)

The district is viewed as a safe seat for the Democrats, but in 1994, Republican Michael Flanagan upset scandal-plagued but powerful Ways and Means Chairman Dan Rostenkowski.

Flanagan served one term. Rod Blagojevich, with the help of his father-in-law's patronage army, bested Flanagan.

Well, Blago is certainly scandal plagued, and although not accused of wrongdoing, Emanuel has always been cozy with Blagojevich, and was in regular contact with the disgraced governor's staff in regards to choosing Obama's replacement.

Had enough?

There is a conservative alternative in the 5th, which is centered on Chicago's Northwest Side. Lifetime district resident and Republican, Rosanna Pulido, has thrown her hat in the ring.

Pulido is pro-life, anti-illegal immigration, and pro-2nd Amendment conservative.

Yes, the district is heavily Democratic, but many social conservatives live within its borders.

Last month Republican Anh "Joseph" Cao upset Democrat William Jefferson in Louisiana's 2nd District. Jefferson was indicted on 16 corrupt on charges in 2007.
The 2nd is also a heavily Democratic district.

It can happen for Pulido.

Voters in Illinois' 5th have a unique opportunity to have their voice heard. The special election will be the first time Illinois voters can express their choice in a national election since Blagojevich's arrest.

Although I don't live in 5th, I'm endorsing Pulido.

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