* If he can raise enough money to compete, this could be quite an interesting turn of events…
Chicago’s corruption-fighting Inspector General David Hoffman has resigned to enter the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate, removing a giant thorn from Mayor Daley’s side.
A former federal prosecutor who specialized in breaking up street gangs, Hoffman was hired away from the U.S. attorney’s office in 2005 at a time when Daley was besieged by the Hired Truck, city hiring and minority contracting scandals.
It wasn’t long before an office that had concentrated on low-level corruption and almost never conducted criminal investigations was working hand-in-glove with the federal government.
Not only does Hoffman bring real ethics and prosecutorial credentials to the race (which could conceivable hurt Alexi Giannoulias), but as the second white male to enter the race he could also empower the only African-American and the only female candidate to announce so far, Urban League President Cheryle Jackson.
Game changer?
Discuss.
*** UPDATE 1 *** The Tribune confirms…
Chicago Inspector General David Hoffman said today he is resigning his watchdog role to seek the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate.
Hoffman told the Chicago Tribune that he is resigning officially today and told Mayor Richard Daley of his decision on Tuesday. He declined further comment.
*** UPDATE 2 *** From WBEZ’s Twitter page…
Chicago’s Inspector General David Hoffman running for Senate, has Axelrod’s media relations company behind him
* Related…
* Brown: Pols now careful to split gov job, campaign roles
* Franks still mulling Dem race for guv
* At least State Sen. Matt Murphy admits it
* GOP treasurer candidate Rutherford hopes to use ‘bully pulpit’
* DeSart considering run at Senger’s 96th House seat
* Long Grove village president explores run in 8th District
* Another candidate in 59th District’s race
* Patlak to run for Cook Board of Review