Could it be....
U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., who has been endorsed for Obama's Senate seat by the Chicago Defender and the SouthtownStar, says a recent poll should point to him as the favorite.
Here are some other leading candidates.
U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky, a member of the Democratic leadership, has confirmed her interest in the job.
Illinois Veterans' Affairs director Tammy Duckworth, an Iraq vet who lost a close Congressional race in 2006, mentioned the governor in her speech at Democratic National Convention.
Retiring State Senate President Emil Jones was a political mentor to Obama in Springfield and has been a key Blagojevich ally.
Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan. Her appointment would eliminate a top challenger should the governor seek a third term in 2010.
State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias is another potential challenger to Blagojevich in 2010. He is a close friend of Obama's and has a strong fundraising network.
A number of aldermen and community groups have been lobbying for U.S. Rep. Danny Davis.
U.S. Rep. Luis Gutierrez is a national voice on immigration issues and has been outspoken about his desire for the seat.
State Comptroller Dan Hynes lost this seat to Obama in the 2004 primary. He is another potential Blagojevich opponent.
Chicago Urban League President Cheryle Jackson has never held elected office but is Gov. Blagojevich's former communications director.
State Senator Kwame Raoul took over Obama's seat in Springfield and veteran African-American State Senators Emil Jones and Donne Trotter have suggested he do so again.
