After a busy municipal election this spring, I was looking forward to the lull that coincided nicely with the warm weather (sailing season).  During that time, candidates planning to run in 2012 were gearing up for what is certain to be an epic 2012.  It didn't take very long for things to heat up.  

Nudo vs. Frerichs.  Alan Nudo is not the polished professional politician that Frerichs is.  Nudo is a successful job creator with proven success in the real world.  Nudo was instrumental in turning around the county nursing home and getting county [nursing home] finances back in the black.  Frerichs is a political machine with tons of money, who knows how to play the political game.  Voters will have two distinct options.  

Holderfield vs. Frank.  I fully anticipate that Holderfield will implement a scorched earth approach during her primary campaign and she is determined to fight.  I believe that Frank and the local republican strategists appreciate Stephanie's ability and willingness to fight and believe this is why Frank is willing to walk away.  Do you really think this is over because Rick Winkel jumped in?   Holderfield did not wait her turn and she just got punked by the Republican establishment.  Now it's personal.     

Fabri vs. Farney.  With two three primary candidates planning to run for the Dems, I fully expect Fabri to run.  What does he have to lose?   With Fabri's well-publicized work ethic,  is there any chance he can get hired to another job that pays $80k+?  With two three other candidates now in the auditors democrat primary (or expected to be), they are likely going to split the dem vote and allow Fabri to win the primary.   Farney has to be happy with this situation.  

Bambenek vs. Himself.  I admire Bambenek for stepping up and wanting make a difference.  He is very informed about local and state government.  But he ran for school board and lost.  He worked to get the put-back amendment and was not successful.  He tried for the appointment to Rutherford's seat and lost.  He ran for Vice Chair of the Champaign County Republican Party and lost.  This campaign was an opportunity to show that he can lead and generate a support beyond social media.  What does he do right out of the gate this campaign?  He goes negative against Nudo in Kacich's Wednesday article.  If his accusations were true, I wouldn't be so disappointed in him.  If Bambenek needs to play the victim card to attract support, I don't expect he'll generate much of a following among conservative voters.   He is accusing republicans of "knifing" him.  I'm just going to go ahead and stick a fork in him because he is done in this race.  I just hope he doesn't ruin his chances to make a difference by alienating everyone except for his closest followers.  If Bambenek continues on this course, he is likely to run for President in 2016.   His chances of winning in 2016 are about as good as his chances of beating Mike Frerichs in this race.

And it begins...