Sullivan's Traversal?

There is no joy in Mundelein. As readers of this blog are sadly aware ...

Sullivan's Travails

an Illinois PAC opposed to marriage equality has vowed to defeat State Rep Ed Sullivan Jr in the 2014 Primary. At the same time, State Rep Ed Sullivan Jr is looking at his first credible Primary challenge in more than a decade.

When fear, uncertainty and doubt cloud the erstwhile sunny horizons, your LakeCountyEye turns to one man, Dr. I.M. Bhatschidtkhrazzi, Professor of Political Strategery at the College of Lake County. Your LakeCountyEye met Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi for burgers at Emil's on Route 45.

Your LakeCountyEye saw some irony in the fact that, two years ago, Sullivan was remapped into a heavily Republican district. And now he might be looking at early retirement because of his own party's right-wing.

"Ya, be careful what you wish for." said Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "But I wouldn't sell my Sullivan stock short, not quite yet. My recommendation to Sullivan would be to flip, and the sooner the better."

Flip? Your LakeCountyEye was not quite sure what Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi meant -- did that mean to come out of the closet?

"Only if 'come out of the closet' means to switch parties." answered Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "If Sullivan runs as a Democrat in 2014 he can count on being State Rep for another twenty years."

Democrat?

"Ya, that's the Party that throws those Jefferson-Jackson dinners." said Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "Sullivan would win in any Democratic Primary and without breaking a sweat.  Most of the voters in 51 think he is a Democrat, anyways. Why fight city hall?"

Your LakeCountyEye was totally nonplussed. Sullivan, granted, could possibly win in a Democratic primary. But wouldn't the voters feel like they were played, and toss him out in the November election?

"Why don't you ask 'Ex' Sheriff Mark Curran?" When he said Ex, Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi pantomimed air-quotes.

Your LakeCountyEye was not convinced. Could Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi vote for Sullivan if he ran as a Democrat in the general election?

"Absolutely." he said. "And once Sullivan makes it onto the general election ballot he is home-free. The Republicans are sure to nominate some chumbolone who couldn't beat a backyard chicken with a wooden drumstick. Besides, the Sullivan family alone counts for more than half the vote in District 51."

Haha, your LakeCountyEye loves that joke.

"Haha." chuckled Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi.

Your LakeCountyEye heard the Metra train coming and took the opportunity to ask if there was any parting advice.

"Tell your operatives that there may just be a position waiting for Sullivan in the Democratic leadership -- something a lot better than what he got from the new House Republican leader. I've been told it's Sullivan's for the asking. All he needs to do is mention my name, Bhatschidtkhrazzi."