UPDATED OCTOBER 22, 2008:  This Democratic district is becoming more Democratic each year because of demographic changes.  Incumbent Republican Mark Kirk is struggling but holds a lead in the polls.  He has raised a ton of dough and has a moderate reputation that appeals to local Democrats.  Watch this district, however, as an Obama landslide in the area could give this seat to the Democrats.

ORIGINAL COMMENT: This is a Democratic district and  demographic changes are moving this district more towards the Democrats. Kerry won 53% of the vote here in 2004. Republican incumbent Mark Kirk won his first term in 2000 with only 51% of the vote, but  received over 60% of the vote in his next two elections.  Then he fell to 53% in 2006 and that is a danger sign.  He was born in 1959 and is Congregationalist.

By genghisthehun

Representing a swing district North of Chicago, Mark Kirk usually has to work hard to be re-elected. His moderate Republican views however largely match his district's ideological inclinations, thus helping him out a lot. But in a more Democratic year, with the right candidate running against him, Kirk may find himself in tough fight.