Let’s say, just for argument’s sake, that Barack Obama runs for president and wins. The governor would then appoint Obama’s successor. Who should that Democrat be?
- Posted by Rich Miller
99 Comments
- Punley Deiter Finn - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 10:32 am:
Blagojevich will gleefully wet his pants and nominate himself. By doing that he can fully abandon all state responsibilities as the state collapses. He can move on to bringing his happy talk to the nation.
- I can't believe we did it again - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:03 am:
Madigan would be a good choice and get rid of his competition.
Seriously, though: Hynes. He’s a reasonably honest and serious public servant. We all know he’ll never be governor (Lisa’s got dibbs), and he’s going to waste as a glorified accountant. Plus, with the Dems in control of both offices anyway, it would be a good time to consolidate the Comptroller and Treasurer’s office - which will save the state money.
- four (maybe less) more years - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:15 am:
Lisa Madigan,
This removes his primary competition. She is his greatest threat (other than the feds) to a third term.
Rep. Schakowsky…and before folks start screaming that an Evanston liberal can’t represent Illinois, don’t forget that she has wealth of experience organizing and advocating on behalf of seniors, union members, and consumers across all of Illinois.
- charlie johnston - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:29 am:
Rich, I’m pretty sure you’re mistaken. I know that in the case of U.S. House members there is no appointment provision: there must be a special election. I believe it is the same case with U.S. Senators. Political officials can appoint replacement candidates during an election (as with Alan Keyes in 2004 and Jean Carnahan in Missouri a few years back) but they can’t appoint them to office.
Lisa Madigan is clearly a good tactical choice. But you have to figure there’ll be tremendous pressure on him to appoint a minority to fill the seat. Names that will be bandied about would probably include Gery Chico, Miguel del Valle, David Miller, Jesse Jr., and James Meeks.
Senators were originally nominated by the governor, approved by the state senate, and sent to Washington. When this changed 100 years or so ago, governors were allowed to keep this original power in cases when the seat becomes vacated.
What about Forrest Claypool? He is smart, has common sense, and with him and Rahm Emanuel both in D.C., they would get a lot accomplished for Illinois and Chicago.
- charlie johnston - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:54 am:
Thanks, Vanilla Man. I wasn’t positive because of just what you’re talking about - that Senators were originally selected by officials of the state and not directly elected, but I couldn’t quickly find the answer. Thanks for correcting me.
why not mangieri, that way madigans pick still holds a state wide office and when Giannoulias, or however you spell it, gets indicted - which once he settles in will prolly start being shady - mangieri is poised and known much better throughout the state and can take over like orginally planned. Mangieri losing is just a bump in the road. the soon to be treasurer will definately not be able to help himself in helping his cronies and it will end up in the news and all will be exposed.
Its not like it used to be! future politicians take note as to what is happening throughout the state and country. the fringe benefits of being a politician are slowly eroding away.
- Truthful James - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:59 am:
Rod would not directly appoint himself. He would resign, LGOV Quinn would succeed him as GOV and appoint Rod.
Having the Hynes family and the madigan family playing off against one another is good for the Rodster.
I think that Rahm Emmaneul would be best for getting Illinois at least up to the table.
I assume the real decision will rest with President Obama rather than the Gov. As the newly elected President he will have a lot more power than a governor with limited popularity and clout. Additionally, recommending his replacement is a major carrot Obama will use to line up necessary political support.
My first choice is Bill Daley. The only people who can really provide significant support are the Daleys. There is no one else in Illinois that comes close to that much clout. The Mayor can help deliver Chicago area votes, line up support nationally wiht mayors and other politicians, and give the full backing of his political consultants and admin heavyweights including Rahm and Axelrod. Bill can help with his national connections. Bill Daley has played with the idea of running for a significant office and I’m sure he would love to be Sen. Daley.
Another possibility is that Obama will want to see another African-American in his place to have a modicum of diversity in the Senate and pay back some old supporters. The reality is he will have the African-American votes and money already so no AA really brings that much to the table. One possibility is Jesse Jr. I’m sure he would be interested and Jesse Sr. can provide significant national level support. Another option is John Rogers, Linda Rice Johnson or a civic minded, successful business person.
While I’m sure Alexis Giannoulias would be interested. There is no compelling reason and he is too young.
I also don’t think the Madigans or Hynes bring enough to a national campaign to warrant a senate appointment.
Dan Hynes would make a great Senator and no doubt will do so, but I would appoint Glen Poshard and allow Dan Hynes an opportunity to challenge and unseat Dick Durbin.
If Rod appoints Dan Hynes, he also gets to appoint Hynes’ successor. I’d take the two-fer.
Appointing Lisa Madigan gets you the same two-fer, and also gets Lisa out of the race for Gov by putting her in DC 11 months out of the year.
However, I’m not sure Lisa would accept. I think she’s got her eyes fixed on the Gov’s mansion. Heck, she might as well move in now since nobody’s using it.
If Rod is really serious about running again in 2010 (shudder) , the Secretary of State’s office employs a lot more people than the Comptroller’s Office. Blago might like to put his own man in there. Plus he keeps peace with the African-American community and he doesn’t antagonize any of the political dynasties in IL too much with a Jesse White selection, since people will figure Jesse won’t keep the seat for too long anyway.
Do you really think Pat Quinn would appoint GRod if the Governor did resign? If I was Quinn, I’d say I would, then pick a Hynes or Madigan instead. This eliminates the Governor (and all that baggage) and one of his likely challengers in ‘10. Talk about a 2fer!!
what about Sen. (Now Clerk) Miguel del Valle? Not close to Blagojevich, but leader of an important D. constituency and a seasoned lawmaker.
- DeepFriedOnAStick - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 1:31 pm:
Off the topic (though just a little): Obama, if elected president, can show his true machine roots by nominating Patrick Fitzgerald for a federal judgeship, or a spot in the Justice Department, or anywhere but U.S. attorney in Chicago. Obama can save Daley and Blagojevich, if Fitzgerald hasn’t already taken them down by then.
Obama can talk and talk about being clean and above the fray or whatever (gimme a break), but he can’t muster a peep of criticism when it comes to the endemic corruption in his own adopted state and among his own peers.
While I do not think Obama is going to be elected President in 2008, if for the sake of argument it is December 2008, and his Senate seat is open, I believe Governor Quinn will appoint himself to it.
That way, Lisa Madigan is automatically elevated to Governor, and has nobody standing in her way for 2010 which will make her father quite happy as well.
Seriously, shouldn’t we be referring to Governor-Elect Quinn, post election?
DeepFriedonaStick — thanks for reminding Democrats once again just how terrified the GOP hardliners are of Barack Obama. The Presidential Election is two years away, Obama’s not even a declared candidate, and you guys are already trying to swiftboat him.
You’d probably accuse Sen. Paul Simon of the same crime for not campaigning against corruption in Chicago while he was in the US Senate. Sen. Max Cleland — a decorated hero who gave every limb but his left arm to his country — was unpatriotic according to you guys, so why not?
Wanna blame somebody for not speaking out about “business as usual” in the City of Chicago? How about blaming that flock of sheep known as the “City Council”? It’s actually their job to provide oversight. Last time I checked, Obama isn’t an Alderman.
- DeepFriedOnAStick - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 2:33 pm:
There ya go, YDD. It’s not Obama’s job to talk about corruption in his own back yard (er, side yard), so he doesn’t have to. Said like a true liberal.
why is everyone overlooking Pat Quinn? Quinn has a “legislative process” personality, headlining on one issue and then going on to the next. Not a detail implementation type — even the Treasurer’s Office was a bully pulpit for him. My guess is that both Rod and Quinn would be happier in the legislative branch. Between the two of them, Pat gets it - Rod has to stay closer to wife and home, apparently… and then Rod could appoint Jay Hoffman or Carol Ronen as Lt. Gov.
- who else of course - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 3:00 pm:
Let Hairdo appoint himself; he’ll do far less damage to IL as one of a hundred senators than he’ll keep doiing as gov.
With all of the urgency that he has given other appointments to boards and commissions he might not get around to appointing anyone before the seat is up in 2010.
Burt Odelson. Don’t even joke about that socialist Obama becoming President. Keyes offered no challenge, but I understand Hillary is already having people dig up Obama’s skeletons. You can be sure his drug use in the past and Rezko dealings will be front and center.
whoa-ho there ydd. Let’s cool it with the “swiftboating,” okay?
While it may be a discussion for another topic, “DeepFried” has a good point. Obama hasn’t said much about the undeniable corruption in either his home state or home city. As for his home county, he campaigned for the new poster-child of blatant and corrupt nepotism! Isn’t not unfair to ask him to answer for this, and it’s certainly not “swiftboating.”
It would be Alexi Giannoulias. Obama pushed him hard and he has his own $$$ to defend himself when the seat is up in 2010.
I wish people would stop pushing Sheila Simon. I wish people would stop pushing the kids of politicians past. It gets old. Being born to a noted politician does not make you ready to be a leader the second you graduate law school, get your MBA, “work” on a campaign, etc. Seriously, folks, we need to cut it out before Illinois is run by third-and-fourth generation political bloodlines.
Instead of a twofer, I bet Rod would go for a threefer… or possible fourfer…. Quinn to Senate (to get him out of Rod’s hair), Hynes to Lite Gov, and then some state rep or senator to Comptroller… and then one of his relatives to the state rep/senator position. But I personally would love to see Glenn Poshard… but I think that is a pipedream. All of the Rs love Poshard a little too much for Rod….
Jesse White would be the ideal candidate - knowing Blago though he will put someone there he can control so will most likely be one of these crazy alderman or by the time that happens - Pat Quinn will be Governor and I bet that they will pick Dan Hynes.
What’s the conservatives’ kindergartener mentality the past couple of days?
“Crackhead Obama”?
“Don’t even joke about that socialist”?
“WTF? Obama is superhuman.”?
Grow up people. No wonder you lost the mid-terms. The American people finally realized juvenile put-downs are no way to run our nation.
As to Rich’s question…
Dan Hynes clearly wants the job or he wouldn’t have run for it. He was gracious in defeat and has been a very capable campaigner for folks up and down the ballot before and since 2004. He’d be a consensus favorite and an easy choice.
Lisa Madigan may be a politically wise choice for Blago. But I don’t see him going there, or her accepting even if he does.
Bill Daley and Miguel del Valle are interesting choices, but I don’t think they’re on Blago’s radar. By the same token, Gery Chico could be a darkhorse, “interesting” choice.
–
Grand Old Partisan, Obama can give the same answer the Bush-Cheney administration has been giving to even deeper questions about Halliburton and other corruption and war-profiteering issues from Iraq’s lost millions to Katrina’s billion dollars of waste — “We’re not going to talk about that.”
Conservatives never seem to mind the billions being drained by the Bush White House…
He supported Stroger for the same reason Durbin did — party loyalty.
Rezko sidled up to Obama, not the other way around. Slimey people tend to do that — look at how many stalkers pop-culture celebrities attract.
And if your conservative friends like “Crackhead” up there wants to ask about Sen. Obama’s past experimentation with illicit drugs, maybe he should’ve shown some consistency and act just as concerned about Pres. Bush’s reported cocaine habit.
Lisa Madigan would be a good choice come to think of it - eliminates her from any chance of running for Governor - of course -if shes popular may hurt his chance of running for President one day - those darn politicians.
Maybe somebody such as Rich Miller knows the answer to this for certain, but I thought that a Lt. Governor vacancy in IL would remain vacant.
I seem to remember this being a bit of an issue back in 1994 when Kustra was going to quit and Jim Edgar had his heart issue, and there was talk that until the next election when a new ticket would be elected, that Attorney General Roland Burris would be next in the line of succession.
I know that if in several other states, the Lt. Governorship becomes vacant, somebody such as the State Senate President, assumes the role in addition to their State Senate duties.
So, when Blago goes to the slammer and Quinn becomes Governor, there will not be a Lt. Governor. So if hypothetically speaking, Obama resigns, Quinn appoints himself to the Senate. He doesn’t have to worry about winning an election and Lisa Madigan becomes the third Governor in as many years and is the incumbent for 2010.
- Way Down Here in Nowhere - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 5:52 pm:
ARTICLE V, SECTION 7. VACANCIES IN OTHER ELECTIVE OFFICES
If the Attorney General, Secretary of State, Comptroller or Treasurer fails to qualify or if his office becomes vacant, the Governor shall fill the office by appointment. The appointee shall hold office until the elected officer qualifies or until a successor is elected and qualified as
may be provided by law and shall not be subject to removal by the Governor. If the Lieutenant Governor fails to qualify or if his office becomes vacant, it shall remain vacant until the end of the term. (Source: Illinois Constitution.)
- Master of the Obvious - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 6:33 pm:
GOP — I don’t think it’s any more fair to criticize Obama for not getting on a soapbox about corruption in Chicago than it was of Blagojevich to criticize Topinka for not getting on a soapbox about corruption in the Secretary of State’s office under Ryan and Edgar.
Whether folks like it or not, we live in a partisan democracy. Republicans get up on a soapbox to make speeches about Democratic corruption and visa-versa, but they don’t make speeches about members of their own party unless they’re running against them in a primary.
How did the fraudulent disaster relief claims in Katrina become Bush’s fault? It’s partisan B.S. to suggest that Bush is to blame for individuals lying about the damage to their homes or misusing the money to buy non-essential items.
And Illinois Dems have zero standing to complain about government waste - be it Iraq, Katrina, or otherwise. Cook County has been for sale for a long time and “profiteering” from government is the rule in the City of Chicago. Your Governor instituted the most aggressive pay-to-play programs we have ever seen and you ethusiastically reelected him. You passed over a reliably moderate and fiscally conservative Republican to vote for Blago. Shame on you.
Pretend that Obama is whatever you want and the media will help you foist it on the public. Style over substance is your principle after all.
But please, spare us the sanctimonious tirade against government waste. It shows that you are intellectually dishonest or an ignorant partisan at best.
Appointed Senators rarely are re-elected thus the spot should go to a person who does not plan to run again — a nice retirement perk for Jesse White, for example. Or Bobbie Steele if she needs another pension plan.
I’ll go with Dan Hynes, who was gracious in defeat and who endorsed Barack Obama for President before anyone else in the state.
He’s matured in office and has led with integrity for the past 8 years statewide.
Hands down over Lisa Madigan.
- Scott Fawell's Cellmate - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 12:22 am:
Republicans are terrified of Obama.
You read it here, but more so, you can just feel it, smell it, taste it. The GOP is terrified: Obama is a real candidate who could and would win the White House in 2008.
For example, Illinois Republicans are screaming that Obama should chastise Mayor Daley and others for alleged or actual public corruption ?
Sorry, but you guys lost your credibility to lecture anyone about corruption in government right around the 75th conviction in Operation Safe Roads.
Everyone agrees our elected officials should be honest public servants, but public corruption is an equal opportunity bipartisan disease. To quote the Chicago Tribune in its article the day Ryan was found guilty: “Operation Safe Road has snared 75 convictions, ranking it with Operation Greylord, the 1980s probe of judicial corruption, as the most successful federal investigations in modern Chicago history in reach and significance.”
As for the argument that Obama lacks the experience to be President, its not the paper, its the person that matters.
Don Rumsfeld and Dick Cheney had the perfect resumes to run and win the war in Iraq, but instead initiated a fiasco. So its not experience alone, but rather does the person have the judgment necessary to learn from experience and make good decisions.
- George Ryan's Cellmate - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 12:24 am:
Republicans are terrified of Obama.
You read it here, but more so, you can just feel it, smell it, taste it. The GOP is terrified: Obama is a real candidate who could and would win the White House in 2008.
For example, Illinois Republicans are screaming that Obama should chastise Mayor Daley and others for alleged or actual public corruption ?
Sorry, but you guys lost your credibility to lecture anyone about corruption in government right around the 75th conviction in Operation Safe Roads.
Everyone agrees our elected officials should be honest public servants, but public corruption is an equal opportunity bipartisan disease. To quote the Chicago Tribune in its article the day Ryan was found guilty: “Operation Safe Road has snared 75 convictions, ranking it with Operation Greylord, the 1980s probe of judicial corruption, as the most successful federal investigations in modern Chicago history in reach and significance.”
As for the argument that Obama lacks the experience to be President, its not the paper, its the person that matters.
Don Rumsfeld and Dick Cheney had the perfect resumes to run and win the war in Iraq, but instead initiated a fiasco. So its not experience alone, but rather does the person have the judgment necessary to learn from experience and make good decisions.
[…] The Sun-Times Breaks Down the Mayors Patronage Army Huntley on the Civic Committee Plan Latino Group to Boycott Carpentersville Who Will Be Obama’s Replacement? […]
Lisa Madigan would be the perfect fit. She carried a huge number of GOP votes as well as Democrats and Independents. People trust her to be above the political fray and do what is best for the people.
Lisa would seriously consider going to Washington. She doesn’t want to run for Governor even though Mike Madigan as aspirations for her to do so. She knows whoever takes over for Blagojevich has been handed a “Kamikazee Flight” as far as their political future goes. Who wants to clean up the mess that Ryan & Blago have created?
Rod would also eliminate Lisa as a gubernatorial contender in this way for when he comes up for re-election again.
Rod would never go back to DC. He’d never want to be Durbin’s junior Senator. Rod would appoint Lisa to get him out of her sights for 2010…and then still have the two-fer. Putting Quinn in that slot is a tactical political mistake, something that the Governor does not do.
If Bush didn’t want responsibility for overseeing the country during times of war, natural disaster or anything else … he shouldn’t be the president.
The Republican Congressmen were in charge of setting up the Federal disaster relief response to Katrina and Republican Bush signed off on it.
If there is now (as we’re finding out) $1 Billion in fraud and waste it is the Republicans’ fault for not having set up more rigorous oversight — and Bush is their point person.
So that’s how it becomes his responsibility — he’s in charge.
- I have the answer - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 2:46 pm:
i also just wanted to point out that if the Dems win the white house (obama or anyone else), Durbin may be appointed AG. So it could be Blago appointing a replacement for Durbin.
Blago will surely have to fill the position with a Repub. Alan Keyes, JBT, Cellini or Kjellander come to mind. After all the Gopers think they ” own ” this state so Blago wouldn’t have the nerve to appoint a Demo !
- Punley Deiter Finn - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 10:32 am:
Jesse White
- Bomber91 - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 10:35 am:
This one is easy, himself. The man’s ego is boundless and this is right up his self-serving alley.
- irishpirate - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 10:36 am:
Lisa Madigan………..she wouldn’t run for governor then and kick his ass outta office.
That is assuming the feds haven’t indicted him by then.
- Snark - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 10:38 am:
Oprah
- GOPJay - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 10:41 am:
Todd Stroger. No wait, Obama would have his son/daughter appointed ala Todd Stroger.
- Bill - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 10:45 am:
Dan Hynes would be my choice, but I think Debbie Mell would be a good Senator, also.
- Wumpus - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 10:46 am:
Amy, she has already proven herself a worthy fundrasier and it is the Chicago way to appoint one’s child.
The Little Lisa Madigan was a good reasoned choice. Possibly Hynes.
- Anon. - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 10:48 am:
Jesse Jackson Jr.
- Niles Township - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 10:56 am:
Who he should appoint = Pat Quinn
Who he will appoint = Dan Hynes
- T.J. - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 10:58 am:
Glenn Poshard.
- zatoichi - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 10:58 am:
Tim Nueikirk
- VanillaMan - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:02 am:
Blagojevich will gleefully wet his pants and nominate himself. By doing that he can fully abandon all state responsibilities as the state collapses. He can move on to bringing his happy talk to the nation.
- I can't believe we did it again - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:03 am:
Madigan would be a good choice and get rid of his competition.
- grand old partisan - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:06 am:
Wumpus, that was hysterical!!
Seriously, though: Hynes. He’s a reasonably honest and serious public servant. We all know he’ll never be governor (Lisa’s got dibbs), and he’s going to waste as a glorified accountant. Plus, with the Dems in control of both offices anyway, it would be a good time to consolidate the Comptroller and Treasurer’s office - which will save the state money.
- four (maybe less) more years - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:15 am:
Lisa Madigan,
This removes his primary competition. She is his greatest threat (other than the feds) to a third term.
- Lurkin - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:16 am:
AG Madigan is an interesting choice too because by appointing Madigan, Blago would then get to appoint Madigan’s successor as AG giving him a twofer.
- Levois - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:18 am:
Yeah I’ll hand it to Lisa Madigan.
- Bill Baar - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:20 am:
Glenn Poshard abosolutely
- scoot - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:23 am:
Giannoulias! just joking
- Anon - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:25 am:
Rep. Schakowsky…and before folks start screaming that an Evanston liberal can’t represent Illinois, don’t forget that she has wealth of experience organizing and advocating on behalf of seniors, union members, and consumers across all of Illinois.
- charlie johnston - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:29 am:
Rich, I’m pretty sure you’re mistaken. I know that in the case of U.S. House members there is no appointment provision: there must be a special election. I believe it is the same case with U.S. Senators. Political officials can appoint replacement candidates during an election (as with Alan Keyes in 2004 and Jean Carnahan in Missouri a few years back) but they can’t appoint them to office.
- Gus Frerotte's Clipboard - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:32 am:
Lisa Madigan is clearly a good tactical choice. But you have to figure there’ll be tremendous pressure on him to appoint a minority to fill the seat. Names that will be bandied about would probably include Gery Chico, Miguel del Valle, David Miller, Jesse Jr., and James Meeks.
- Southern Ilinois Democrat - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:38 am:
Poshard would be my first choice and close behind
are Hynes and Lisa Madigan.
- VanillaMan - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:39 am:
Nope, Charlie - you are not correct.
Senators were originally nominated by the governor, approved by the state senate, and sent to Washington. When this changed 100 years or so ago, governors were allowed to keep this original power in cases when the seat becomes vacated.
- Rod's Brush - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:42 am:
Jefferson Smith
- Anon - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:43 am:
What about Forrest Claypool? He is smart, has common sense, and with him and Rahm Emanuel both in D.C., they would get a lot accomplished for Illinois and Chicago.
- charlie johnston - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:54 am:
Thanks, Vanilla Man. I wasn’t positive because of just what you’re talking about - that Senators were originally selected by officials of the state and not directly elected, but I couldn’t quickly find the answer. Thanks for correcting me.
- SpfldPolitico - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:56 am:
why not mangieri, that way madigans pick still holds a state wide office and when Giannoulias, or however you spell it, gets indicted - which once he settles in will prolly start being shady - mangieri is poised and known much better throughout the state and can take over like orginally planned. Mangieri losing is just a bump in the road. the soon to be treasurer will definately not be able to help himself in helping his cronies and it will end up in the news and all will be exposed.
Its not like it used to be! future politicians take note as to what is happening throughout the state and country. the fringe benefits of being a politician are slowly eroding away.
- Truthful James - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:59 am:
Rod would not directly appoint himself. He would resign, LGOV Quinn would succeed him as GOV and appoint Rod.
Having the Hynes family and the madigan family playing off against one another is good for the Rodster.
I think that Rahm Emmaneul would be best for getting Illinois at least up to the table.
- Objective Dem - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 12:01 pm:
I assume the real decision will rest with President Obama rather than the Gov. As the newly elected President he will have a lot more power than a governor with limited popularity and clout. Additionally, recommending his replacement is a major carrot Obama will use to line up necessary political support.
My first choice is Bill Daley. The only people who can really provide significant support are the Daleys. There is no one else in Illinois that comes close to that much clout. The Mayor can help deliver Chicago area votes, line up support nationally wiht mayors and other politicians, and give the full backing of his political consultants and admin heavyweights including Rahm and Axelrod. Bill can help with his national connections. Bill Daley has played with the idea of running for a significant office and I’m sure he would love to be Sen. Daley.
Another possibility is that Obama will want to see another African-American in his place to have a modicum of diversity in the Senate and pay back some old supporters. The reality is he will have the African-American votes and money already so no AA really brings that much to the table. One possibility is Jesse Jr. I’m sure he would be interested and Jesse Sr. can provide significant national level support. Another option is John Rogers, Linda Rice Johnson or a civic minded, successful business person.
While I’m sure Alexis Giannoulias would be interested. There is no compelling reason and he is too young.
I also don’t think the Madigans or Hynes bring enough to a national campaign to warrant a senate appointment.
- Leroy - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 12:04 pm:
WTF? Obama is superhuman. He can do both jobs quite easily. No need to ‘replace’ him.
- Shelbyville - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 12:17 pm:
My guess would be - Patty.
Why would Poshard want it? He has a big salary and few responsibilities right now.
- in deep stu do - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 12:20 pm:
keeping with the pay to play…Sen Stuart Levine?
- victoria - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 12:40 pm:
Lisa Madigan, Dorothy Brown, Dawn Clark Netsch, Julie Curry, ….get the pattern? too bad it cannot be Loretta Durbin.
- Pat Hickey - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 12:43 pm:
Dan Hynes would make a great Senator and no doubt will do so, but I would appoint Glen Poshard and allow Dan Hynes an opportunity to challenge and unseat Dick Durbin.
- Bakersfield - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 12:44 pm:
Dick Durbin…after he loses in 2008.
Oh wait, that was yesterday’s topic.
Also, I am totally joking about Durbin losing.
I’ll go with Hynes, or someone else who got things done for Rod in 02 or 06.
- So-Called "Austin Mayor" - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 12:49 pm:
If he is still in office, Blago should name Patrick J. Fitzgerald to replace Obama.
- Anon - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 12:56 pm:
It will be whomever Mike and Emil agree upon. The Guv would gladly support their pick. No one else matters in the equation.
- Yellow Dog Democrat - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 1:00 pm:
If Rod appoints Dan Hynes, he also gets to appoint Hynes’ successor. I’d take the two-fer.
Appointing Lisa Madigan gets you the same two-fer, and also gets Lisa out of the race for Gov by putting her in DC 11 months out of the year.
However, I’m not sure Lisa would accept. I think she’s got her eyes fixed on the Gov’s mansion. Heck, she might as well move in now since nobody’s using it.
Shiela Simon would be a very smart choice.
- ZC - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 1:10 pm:
If Rod is really serious about running again in 2010 (shudder) , the Secretary of State’s office employs a lot more people than the Comptroller’s Office. Blago might like to put his own man in there. Plus he keeps peace with the African-American community and he doesn’t antagonize any of the political dynasties in IL too much with a Jesse White selection, since people will figure Jesse won’t keep the seat for too long anyway.
- Bomber91 - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 1:15 pm:
Do you really think Pat Quinn would appoint GRod if the Governor did resign? If I was Quinn, I’d say I would, then pick a Hynes or Madigan instead. This eliminates the Governor (and all that baggage) and one of his likely challengers in ‘10. Talk about a 2fer!!
- Anonymous - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 1:17 pm:
Glenn Poshard
- Elder - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 1:28 pm:
what about Sen. (Now Clerk) Miguel del Valle? Not close to Blagojevich, but leader of an important D. constituency and a seasoned lawmaker.
- DeepFriedOnAStick - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 1:31 pm:
Off the topic (though just a little): Obama, if elected president, can show his true machine roots by nominating Patrick Fitzgerald for a federal judgeship, or a spot in the Justice Department, or anywhere but U.S. attorney in Chicago. Obama can save Daley and Blagojevich, if Fitzgerald hasn’t already taken them down by then.
Obama can talk and talk about being clean and above the fray or whatever (gimme a break), but he can’t muster a peep of criticism when it comes to the endemic corruption in his own adopted state and among his own peers.
He certainly is a good neighbor … D’oh!!!
- Establishment Republican - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 1:59 pm:
While I do not think Obama is going to be elected President in 2008, if for the sake of argument it is December 2008, and his Senate seat is open, I believe Governor Quinn will appoint himself to it.
That way, Lisa Madigan is automatically elevated to Governor, and has nobody standing in her way for 2010 which will make her father quite happy as well.
Seriously, shouldn’t we be referring to Governor-Elect Quinn, post election?
- Yellow Dog Democrat - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 2:10 pm:
DeepFriedonaStick — thanks for reminding Democrats once again just how terrified the GOP hardliners are of Barack Obama. The Presidential Election is two years away, Obama’s not even a declared candidate, and you guys are already trying to swiftboat him.
You’d probably accuse Sen. Paul Simon of the same crime for not campaigning against corruption in Chicago while he was in the US Senate. Sen. Max Cleland — a decorated hero who gave every limb but his left arm to his country — was unpatriotic according to you guys, so why not?
Wanna blame somebody for not speaking out about “business as usual” in the City of Chicago? How about blaming that flock of sheep known as the “City Council”? It’s actually their job to provide oversight. Last time I checked, Obama isn’t an Alderman.
- DeepFriedOnAStick - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 2:33 pm:
There ya go, YDD. It’s not Obama’s job to talk about corruption in his own back yard (er, side yard), so he doesn’t have to. Said like a true liberal.
- capitol view - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 2:51 pm:
why is everyone overlooking Pat Quinn? Quinn has a “legislative process” personality, headlining on one issue and then going on to the next. Not a detail implementation type — even the Treasurer’s Office was a bully pulpit for him. My guess is that both Rod and Quinn would be happier in the legislative branch. Between the two of them, Pat gets it - Rod has to stay closer to wife and home, apparently… and then Rod could appoint Jay Hoffman or Carol Ronen as Lt. Gov.
- who else of course - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 3:00 pm:
Let Hairdo appoint himself; he’ll do far less damage to IL as one of a hundred senators than he’ll keep doiing as gov.
- Joe Schmoe - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 3:08 pm:
How about the Quad Cities’ Mike Boland? He’s already thought about running for every other office up there.
- DeKalbDem - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 3:11 pm:
Glen Poshard would be my first choice but I think Chris Kennedy would be an interesting selection
- anon - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 3:21 pm:
With all of the urgency that he has given other appointments to boards and commissions he might not get around to appointing anyone before the seat is up in 2010.
- Crackhead Obama - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 3:28 pm:
Burt Odelson. Don’t even joke about that socialist Obama becoming President. Keyes offered no challenge, but I understand Hillary is already having people dig up Obama’s skeletons. You can be sure his drug use in the past and Rezko dealings will be front and center.
- Bill - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 3:39 pm:
Todd Stroger would also make an excellent senator.
- grand old partisan - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 3:39 pm:
whoa-ho there ydd. Let’s cool it with the “swiftboating,” okay?
While it may be a discussion for another topic, “DeepFried” has a good point. Obama hasn’t said much about the undeniable corruption in either his home state or home city. As for his home county, he campaigned for the new poster-child of blatant and corrupt nepotism! Isn’t not unfair to ask him to answer for this, and it’s certainly not “swiftboating.”
- Judy Topinka - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 3:50 pm:
Rod,
Please pick me! I am out of a job because of you. It is the least you can do for that whipping you gave me. Your old pal, Judy
- Team Sleep - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 3:55 pm:
It would be Alexi Giannoulias. Obama pushed him hard and he has his own $$$ to defend himself when the seat is up in 2010.
I wish people would stop pushing Sheila Simon. I wish people would stop pushing the kids of politicians past. It gets old. Being born to a noted politician does not make you ready to be a leader the second you graduate law school, get your MBA, “work” on a campaign, etc. Seriously, folks, we need to cut it out before Illinois is run by third-and-fourth generation political bloodlines.
- OneMan - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 4:06 pm:
Pat Quinn frees up Lisa to become gov
- 1047 - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 4:28 pm:
Is there a provision in the constitution to appoint a Lt. Gov. in case of vacancy? I’m not 100%, but I don’t think there is.
- Lovie's Leather - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 4:32 pm:
Instead of a twofer, I bet Rod would go for a threefer… or possible fourfer…. Quinn to Senate (to get him out of Rod’s hair), Hynes to Lite Gov, and then some state rep or senator to Comptroller… and then one of his relatives to the state rep/senator position. But I personally would love to see Glenn Poshard… but I think that is a pipedream. All of the Rs love Poshard a little too much for Rod….
- family ties - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 4:44 pm:
now that the family is back together…Sen Dick Mell?
- Boone Logan Square - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 4:52 pm:
Hynes is the first name that comes to mind, but it wouldn’t shock me to see Shelia Simon appointed should that scenario come to pass.
- MINGOP - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 5:02 pm:
Jesse White would be the ideal candidate - knowing Blago though he will put someone there he can control so will most likely be one of these crazy alderman or by the time that happens - Pat Quinn will be Governor and I bet that they will pick Dan Hynes.
- NW burbs - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 5:03 pm:
What’s the conservatives’ kindergartener mentality the past couple of days?
“Crackhead Obama”?
“Don’t even joke about that socialist”?
“WTF? Obama is superhuman.”?
Grow up people. No wonder you lost the mid-terms. The American people finally realized juvenile put-downs are no way to run our nation.
As to Rich’s question…
Dan Hynes clearly wants the job or he wouldn’t have run for it. He was gracious in defeat and has been a very capable campaigner for folks up and down the ballot before and since 2004. He’d be a consensus favorite and an easy choice.
Lisa Madigan may be a politically wise choice for Blago. But I don’t see him going there, or her accepting even if he does.
Bill Daley and Miguel del Valle are interesting choices, but I don’t think they’re on Blago’s radar. By the same token, Gery Chico could be a darkhorse, “interesting” choice.
–
Grand Old Partisan, Obama can give the same answer the Bush-Cheney administration has been giving to even deeper questions about Halliburton and other corruption and war-profiteering issues from Iraq’s lost millions to Katrina’s billion dollars of waste — “We’re not going to talk about that.”
Conservatives never seem to mind the billions being drained by the Bush White House…
He supported Stroger for the same reason Durbin did — party loyalty.
Rezko sidled up to Obama, not the other way around. Slimey people tend to do that — look at how many stalkers pop-culture celebrities attract.
And if your conservative friends like “Crackhead” up there wants to ask about Sen. Obama’s past experimentation with illicit drugs, maybe he should’ve shown some consistency and act just as concerned about Pres. Bush’s reported cocaine habit.
- Central Bob - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 5:07 pm:
if he was smart he will look at claypool.
- Central Bob - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 5:08 pm:
Lisa Madigan would be a good choice come to think of it - eliminates her from any chance of running for Governor - of course -if shes popular may hurt his chance of running for President one day - those darn politicians.
- scoot - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 5:31 pm:
From the above responses…and as a Republican, Poshard doesn’t sound that bad. Or a long shot, Joe Brunsvold (former DNR Director).
Just not another Chicago Dem
- Establishment Republican - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 5:34 pm:
Maybe somebody such as Rich Miller knows the answer to this for certain, but I thought that a Lt. Governor vacancy in IL would remain vacant.
I seem to remember this being a bit of an issue back in 1994 when Kustra was going to quit and Jim Edgar had his heart issue, and there was talk that until the next election when a new ticket would be elected, that Attorney General Roland Burris would be next in the line of succession.
I know that if in several other states, the Lt. Governorship becomes vacant, somebody such as the State Senate President, assumes the role in addition to their State Senate duties.
So, when Blago goes to the slammer and Quinn becomes Governor, there will not be a Lt. Governor. So if hypothetically speaking, Obama resigns, Quinn appoints himself to the Senate. He doesn’t have to worry about winning an election and Lisa Madigan becomes the third Governor in as many years and is the incumbent for 2010.
- Way Down Here in Nowhere - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 5:52 pm:
Alan Keyes
- True Observer - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 6:11 pm:
Off point but,
In the face of everything Giannoulias beat them all. He may take out Durbin in the primary in 2008.
History lesson -
Dixon was a legend compared to Durbin and Moseley-Braun took him out.
- Dooley Dudright - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 6:21 pm:
Estab Repub, et al. –
ARTICLE V, SECTION 7. VACANCIES IN OTHER ELECTIVE OFFICES
If the Attorney General, Secretary of State, Comptroller or Treasurer fails to qualify or if his office becomes vacant, the Governor shall fill the office by appointment. The appointee shall hold office until the elected officer qualifies or until a successor is elected and qualified as
may be provided by law and shall not be subject to removal by the Governor. If the Lieutenant Governor fails to qualify or if his office becomes vacant, it shall remain vacant until the end of the term. (Source: Illinois Constitution.)
- Master of the Obvious - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 6:33 pm:
Revised History Lesson–Al Hofield took out Dixon
- Reddbyrd - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 7:07 pm:
How about Mike Madigan….
- Tinka - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 7:46 pm:
Sen. Mike Jacobs.
- Concerned Voter - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 8:37 pm:
First he will have to check with Rezko, oh wait scratch that. Whoever is next on the donors/favors/contributors list.
- Sarge - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 8:44 pm:
What about Emil Jones?
- Yellow Dog Democrat - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 8:51 pm:
GOP — I don’t think it’s any more fair to criticize Obama for not getting on a soapbox about corruption in Chicago than it was of Blagojevich to criticize Topinka for not getting on a soapbox about corruption in the Secretary of State’s office under Ryan and Edgar.
Whether folks like it or not, we live in a partisan democracy. Republicans get up on a soapbox to make speeches about Democratic corruption and visa-versa, but they don’t make speeches about members of their own party unless they’re running against them in a primary.
- Gerald - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 8:53 pm:
Todd Stroger for US Senate
or maybe Bobbie Steele’s son
- Anon - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 8:57 pm:
Hey NW Burbs
How did the fraudulent disaster relief claims in Katrina become Bush’s fault? It’s partisan B.S. to suggest that Bush is to blame for individuals lying about the damage to their homes or misusing the money to buy non-essential items.
And Illinois Dems have zero standing to complain about government waste - be it Iraq, Katrina, or otherwise. Cook County has been for sale for a long time and “profiteering” from government is the rule in the City of Chicago. Your Governor instituted the most aggressive pay-to-play programs we have ever seen and you ethusiastically reelected him. You passed over a reliably moderate and fiscally conservative Republican to vote for Blago. Shame on you.
Pretend that Obama is whatever you want and the media will help you foist it on the public. Style over substance is your principle after all.
But please, spare us the sanctimonious tirade against government waste. It shows that you are intellectually dishonest or an ignorant partisan at best.
- RBD - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 9:00 pm:
Appointed Senators rarely are re-elected thus the spot should go to a person who does not plan to run again — a nice retirement perk for Jesse White, for example. Or Bobbie Steele if she needs another pension plan.
- Anon - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 9:03 pm:
Yellow Dog sure sounds like he cares about fairness. Why is it that he is always telling other people what to think or trying to be the referee?
- Jan Fan - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 9:26 pm:
Schakowsky would be a great choice, she’s established herself as an effective, progressive voice, and would be a great alternative to a machine pick
- values matter - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:28 pm:
I’ll go with Dan Hynes, who was gracious in defeat and who endorsed Barack Obama for President before anyone else in the state.
He’s matured in office and has led with integrity for the past 8 years statewide.
Hands down over Lisa Madigan.
- Lets Get Real - Thursday, Dec 7, 06 @ 11:42 pm:
First of all, get off the Alexi bandwagon, come on! The guy is corrupt and an empty suit!
Rod will pick himself or someone who has helped him a lot.
How about a Hispanic Senator- Gutierrez.
Jay Hoffman– downstate
- North of I-80 - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 12:04 am:
Antoin S. “Tony†Rezko
- Scott Fawell's Cellmate - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 12:22 am:
Republicans are terrified of Obama.
You read it here, but more so, you can just feel it, smell it, taste it. The GOP is terrified: Obama is a real candidate who could and would win the White House in 2008.
For example, Illinois Republicans are screaming that Obama should chastise Mayor Daley and others for alleged or actual public corruption ?
Sorry, but you guys lost your credibility to lecture anyone about corruption in government right around the 75th conviction in Operation Safe Roads.
Everyone agrees our elected officials should be honest public servants, but public corruption is an equal opportunity bipartisan disease. To quote the Chicago Tribune in its article the day Ryan was found guilty: “Operation Safe Road has snared 75 convictions, ranking it with Operation Greylord, the 1980s probe of judicial corruption, as the most successful federal investigations in modern Chicago history in reach and significance.”
As for the argument that Obama lacks the experience to be President, its not the paper, its the person that matters.
Don Rumsfeld and Dick Cheney had the perfect resumes to run and win the war in Iraq, but instead initiated a fiasco. So its not experience alone, but rather does the person have the judgment necessary to learn from experience and make good decisions.
- George Ryan's Cellmate - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 12:24 am:
Republicans are terrified of Obama.
You read it here, but more so, you can just feel it, smell it, taste it. The GOP is terrified: Obama is a real candidate who could and would win the White House in 2008.
For example, Illinois Republicans are screaming that Obama should chastise Mayor Daley and others for alleged or actual public corruption ?
Sorry, but you guys lost your credibility to lecture anyone about corruption in government right around the 75th conviction in Operation Safe Roads.
Everyone agrees our elected officials should be honest public servants, but public corruption is an equal opportunity bipartisan disease. To quote the Chicago Tribune in its article the day Ryan was found guilty: “Operation Safe Road has snared 75 convictions, ranking it with Operation Greylord, the 1980s probe of judicial corruption, as the most successful federal investigations in modern Chicago history in reach and significance.”
As for the argument that Obama lacks the experience to be President, its not the paper, its the person that matters.
Don Rumsfeld and Dick Cheney had the perfect resumes to run and win the war in Iraq, but instead initiated a fiasco. So its not experience alone, but rather does the person have the judgment necessary to learn from experience and make good decisions.
- B Hicks - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 6:26 am:
Dan Hynes would be my pick. Jay would make a great Comptroller.
Pingback Mike Van Winkle » Morning Reading - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 6:45 am:
[…] The Sun-Times Breaks Down the Mayors Patronage Army Huntley on the Civic Committee Plan Latino Group to Boycott Carpentersville Who Will Be Obama’s Replacement? […]
- Billy The Kid - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 7:07 am:
Lisa Madigan would be the perfect fit. She carried a huge number of GOP votes as well as Democrats and Independents. People trust her to be above the political fray and do what is best for the people.
Lisa would seriously consider going to Washington. She doesn’t want to run for Governor even though Mike Madigan as aspirations for her to do so. She knows whoever takes over for Blagojevich has been handed a “Kamikazee Flight” as far as their political future goes. Who wants to clean up the mess that Ryan & Blago have created?
Rod would also eliminate Lisa as a gubernatorial contender in this way for when he comes up for re-election again.
- Duh - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 7:33 am:
Jay Hoffman, No wait he is already making tons of money where he’s at now.
- Cornelius - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 9:24 am:
Rod would never go back to DC. He’d never want to be Durbin’s junior Senator. Rod would appoint Lisa to get him out of her sights for 2010…and then still have the two-fer. Putting Quinn in that slot is a tactical political mistake, something that the Governor does not do.
- NW burbs - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 12:54 pm:
Hey Anon 8:57,
If Bush didn’t want responsibility for overseeing the country during times of war, natural disaster or anything else … he shouldn’t be the president.
The Republican Congressmen were in charge of setting up the Federal disaster relief response to Katrina and Republican Bush signed off on it.
If there is now (as we’re finding out) $1 Billion in fraud and waste it is the Republicans’ fault for not having set up more rigorous oversight — and Bush is their point person.
So that’s how it becomes his responsibility — he’s in charge.
- I have the answer - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 2:46 pm:
Sheila Simon.
- Matt - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 3:14 pm:
i also just wanted to point out that if the Dems win the white house (obama or anyone else), Durbin may be appointed AG. So it could be Blago appointing a replacement for Durbin.
- deconstructing circe - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 4:50 pm:
jay hoffman would be a phenomenal senator. he has a good grasp on the issues and he’s sexy.
- Anon - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 5:45 pm:
It’s Luis hands down.
- T.J. - Friday, Dec 8, 06 @ 5:45 pm:
“Schakowsky would be a great choice, she’s established herself as an effective, progressive voice, and would be a great alternative to a machine pick”
I nominate her husband for U.S. Senate!
- bluedog demo - Sunday, Dec 10, 06 @ 6:46 am:
Blago will surely have to fill the position with a Repub. Alan Keyes, JBT, Cellini or Kjellander come to mind. After all the Gopers think they ” own ” this state so Blago wouldn’t have the nerve to appoint a Demo !