Illinois State Sen. Michael Bond will be the latest to try and unseat GOP Rep. Mark "Tiberius" Kirk, who faced two strong though unsuccessful challenges from Democrat Dan Seals in 2006 and 2008.
Kirk is considering a run for the U.S. Senate for the seat currently held by Roland "Roland Burris" Burris, so Bond may be entering the race with the expectation of such a run. Either way, 007 is staffing up:
Bond has tapped John Lapp to do his media campaign, Bennett, Petts & Normington to his polling and Ed Peavy to do direct mail for the race, according to one source familiar with the arrangement. The source also said a former aide to Rep. Melissa Bean (D), Brian Herman, will manage his campaign.
Bond and two other Democrats are making moves to run for the seat. State Sen. Susan Garrett is also considering a bid and plans to meet with campaign officials in Washington, D.C., this month.
The 2006 and 2008 Democratic nominee, marketing consultant Dan Seals, has indicated he would run a third time only if Kirk retires.
Dame Judi Dench could not be reached for comment.
Kirk will be a formidable candidate if he stays in the 10th; we've learned over the past two cycles how difficult it is to beat him. He's one of the best fundraisers in the House, and should be a strong contender even if he opts for the tougher Senate race.
Expect a tough Democratic primary if Kirk does jump, with the winner favored to take the seat. If Kirk stays...well, who knew Captain Kirk would be the next Bond villain?