Michelle Obama for Senate?

[Mr. Illini]

I don't think Michelle or Madigan will be running for Senate in 2016. Madigan is going to stick to Springfield and likely run for Governor once her father retires. Michelle is very smart and would do very well, but I do think she will want to settle down after the Obama presidency. I really hope she doesn't run in North Carolina (and idk why she would). I would feel betrayed.

If I had to draft an early line-up for the Dems, it would be Duckworth, Luis Gutierrez, Robin Kelly, and Sheila Simon if she can get past Topinka.

My early choice would be Robin Kelly, but it doesn't mean much at this point.

I don't think any of them are b-listers, btw. They're all quality candidates with great name recognition in the area and present a big threat to Senator Kirk.

I really like Kirk and would probably vote to re-elect him, but he doesn't stand much of a chance if the Dems put up a somewhat decent candidate. 2010 was an anomaly year and the candidate he faced was unexciting anyway.

[Mr. Illini]

The most important news out of this seat should be that Kirk has made it pretty clear that he is running again at this point. Michelle won't run and I don't think Madigan is worth discussing for the seat either.