Illinois 1998

[Q]

Poshard was really popular in Southern Illinois - something of a local hero, I suppose.

I'd say that the split in this election was as much a regional as an ideological one, although by most accounts Poshard was to the right of Ryan on many social issues.  Both of these factors help to explain the Democrat's relatively poor showing in Cook County.

As an aside, Poshard places the blame for his loss on Bill Clinton, who's dealings he says cost Democratic candidates around the country in 1998.

[Q]

Was Poshard a populist (Southern populist maybe?), or just conservative?

Yes, Poshard was most certainly a populist, in the tradition of the region.  He was an excellent match for most of Southern Illinois.

[Q]

ryan = a great man and a personal hero of mine.

It is unfortunate that you are so inspired by corruption.