I caught this article in the Chicago Sun Times (awful rag, I know) and it has some interesting ideas about who could take over Obama's Senate seat if he wins the presidency. Sun Times: Schakowsky makes play for Obama's seat
More after the jump...
Jan Shakowsky (for those who don't know) is congresswoman since 1999 in Illinois' 9th district, which includes some far northern neighborhoods of Chicago (Rogers Park) and some of the toney northern suburbs. She is one of the most progressive/liberal voices in the house.
Rep. Jan Schakowsky has made what appears to be the most explicit pitch yet to be appointed senator if Barack Obama is elected president. Such an appointment would be at least seven months away and would be made by Gov. Blagojevich.
"I would be. I certainly would be interested in that. I think it is unseemly and untimely right now to do much beyond stating my interest in that," Schakowsky said Friday in a taping of WMAQ-Channel 5's "City Desk."
In the end, Governor Blagojevich will make the decision. The article talks about other possibilities including Dan Hynes who was runner-up in Obama's primary win for the Senate seat.
Among the more interesting options, Blagojevich could appoint Attorney General Lisa Madigan to keep her from running against him for governor. He could appoint himself senator. He could also appoint Obama ally Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias.
Asked if he was interested in the appointment, U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. said through a spokesman he was "intrigued" at the potential of Schakowsky being named, but "it's premature to speculate right now on a replacement for Obama."
The article also mentions the Jan Schakowsky's husband, who was convicted in a "check kiting scheme" and how that could be a burden on her in an upcoming election for the seat (after the 7 months are served by appointment).
I admire Jan Schakowsky and think she would make a great senator. I do not live in her district, but I have always supported her since she is a true progressive. What do you think? Leave your suggestions in the comments.