Two years ago, Daniel Biss came close (but no cigar) to defeating a moderate Republican state representative -- Beth Coulson.
This year, the seat is open, but the wind is in his face. He's been walking the distirct for months. I went out Saturday to help in the office. Half the other volunteers working when I went in were his relatives.
He's one of the two endorsed candidates this cycle which the Northside (Chicago) DFA has "adopted." That means that we committed to provide significant manpower to his campaign.
A pick-up this year, even at the state-rep level, will be a sign of hope. And Daniel is a true progressive. He'll move not only the legislature -- but also the Democratic caucus in Springfield -- slightly to the left.