I have previously suggested that when one sees one’s legislator being quoted by Chicago media, that’s impressive.

I know I was impressed the first time I saw former Crystal Lake State Rep. (then, State Comptroller and Appellate Judge, now Federal District Judge) George Lindberg on Chicago TV.

So, State Rep. Jack Franks’ constituents can be excused for being impressed with seeing Franks face on the front page of the Chicago Tribune.

He wasn’t there because he won a great legislative victory.

Actually, he was there because he lost and the Chicago Tribune wanted to stick it to Governor Rod Blagojevich.

The Tribune has been campaigning without mercy to put a recall constitutional amendment on this fall’s ballot.

No such luck.

The governor bought off too many Democrats in the state senate.

So, what does Franks do with this follow-up on his bulk purchase of prescription drug idea, which, incidentally, didn’t seem to live up to its hype?

I figure Franks will run for a statewide office.

Of course, he would have the active opposition of Senate President Emil Jones in any such effort, but Franks is one who might be willing to role the dice.

You do notice that he has dumped the beard he was wearing the last time he was in the Chicago media spotlight.

Since the Democrats don’t have any farm team in McHenry County, that means his district can probably be recaptured. So what Republican wants to drive 3½ to 4 hours each way to and from Springfield in return for virtually no influence?