Voters throughout central Illinois today winnow down who will replace Aaron Schock in Congress. Schock, a Republican, left his seat in March following a swirl of controversy, and ethical questions.
Shock's resignation forced Illinois to schedule a special election. After a brief campaign, it's time for the primary. Head of the Democratic Party of Illinois, House Speaker Michael Madigan says Democrats will be "competitive."
"They'll be an opportunity for people to choose between Democrats and Republicans, and to take into consideration everything that are before the voters when they vote, both federal and state issues," Madigan says.
But because of how the district is drawn, many political analysts predict the seat will remain in Republican hands.
First, both parties need to select a nominee.
Republicans have a three-way contest. It's between the editor of a conservative newsletter, Mike Flynn of Quincy, Peoria-area State Senator Darin LaHood and Donald Rients of Benson.
The two Democratic candidates are Springfield School Board member Adam Lopez and Quincy high school teacher Rob Mellon.
