Here’s some more tough news: Democrats have lost their candidate for the open seat race in the 18th District of Illinois. The Peoria Journal-Star has the story:
Dick Versace, the Democratic candidate for the 18th Congressional District, told the Journal Star in an exclusive interview today he is withdrawing from the race for personal reasons.
“I thank all who offered their support to me and respectfully ask for their understanding,” he said.
Versace was the former coach of the Indianapolis Pacers and also taught the local Bradley University team, so some Democrats held hope that Versace might be able to lend them some star power in a tough race (the district sits at R+5.5).
The filing deadline has come and gone, and I’m not sure what (if any) mechanisms local Democrats have in order to get another name on the primary ballot — Versace was the lone Democrat to file for this race.
This wasn’t a likely flip at all, but Republicans have caught a nice break here if Democrats can’t find a credible replacement for Versace.
UPDATE: As mentioned in the comments, here’s how it’ll roll:
An official at the state board of elections said there is no method to get another Democrat on the primary ballot. Without a nominee after the Feb. 5 primary, Democrats will be able to fill the vacancy by vote using a committee comprised of leaders from around the district.
We’ll see if a hero will emerge.
That is a tough break. I’d hoped that we could give Schock a race, especially since if he wins this seat, he’ll be in a position to hold it a long time (I think he’s only 26 or 27).
My roommate grew up in IL-18. He leans Republican. He’ll be thrilled.
that we had any chance of picking up anyway. This is one of the most Republican districts in the midwest.
Gather round, y’all, for my assault on reason
I got rhyme skillz like Jeff Gannon got skeezin’
My broadcast power is like CNN
And I get more play than Washingtonienne
Now if she was a senator, I would not trust her
When she’s on the floor, she likes to filibuster
She would sign legislation with a smiley face
And spend weekends at Bill O’Reilly‘s place
So instead of PAN, CDU, or GOP
Take it down to the precinct and vote for me
Peace