Illinois Republicans chose Alan Keyes as their candidate today to run against heavily favored Barack Obama, the up-and-coming Democratic Party star.
Keyes does not currently live in Illinois, and never has. He'll be doing what Hillary did in New York, fulfilling the letter of the residency requirements (i.e. resident of the state as of election day). Apart from that, Keyes ought to liven up the debate quite a bit, and will defuse the Dems' ability to play up Obama's race (half-African).
UPDATE: Illinois blogger Greg isn't too thrilled with this prospect:
I've dealt with Keyes personally... His ego is too big for the Senate, Presidency and probably God...Also, John (PolicyGuy) mentions two more relevant points in a private e-mail:
1. Keyes has not actually committed to running--he will get back with the committee on Sunday or Monday.
Stupid move by the party. He could let them hang out to dry.
2. He was quite clear, in 2000, that Hillary's move was a threat to federalism. See today's Chicago Tribune article (intrusive registration required) for a quote he gave FNC. It will come back to haunt him should he decide to run.
2 comments:
I'm with Policy Guy on this one; a run by Keyes in Illinois would look hypocritical, especially given what he said about Hillary. I think the Republicans should find an Illinois guy (who's not Mike Ditka) and hope for the best. I do want to see a debate between Keyes and Obama, though.
And besides, if Alan runs for the Senate, when will he find time to train for his Labor Day Marathon? He can't be tapering his long runs already.
I do want to see a debate between Keyes and Obama, though.Well, given that nobody gives him much of a chance of winning, maybe he should just stay in the race long enough for 2 or 3 good debates, and then concede. :-)
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