WASHINGTON DC - Sheila Simon, former Illinois Lt. Governor and defeated former candidate for Illinois Comptroller, was non-committal when asked by Roll Call about her running against Republican Congressman Mike Bost in 2016.
A career politician, Simon is considered by to be the top pick for the race, which the Democrats view as a potential pick-up. However, Simon says she not quite ready to jump in just yet.
“I’ve had many folks ask me,” Simon told The Rothenberg & Gonzales Political Report. “I’m not actively pursuing it."
Bost soundly defeated incumbent Democrat Bill Enyart by 11 points in 2014. However, Obama carried the 12th Congressional District by 11 and 2 points in 2008 and 2012, respectively. As a result, the Democrats see an opportunity in 2016, which will be a Presidential election year with increased Democrat turnout.
Along with Simon, other potential Democratic challengers include state Rep. Jerry Costello II — heir of former Rep. Jerry Costello — St. Clair County State’s Attorney Brendan Kelly and state Rep. Jay Hoffman.
