The money situation doesn't really change the dynamic too much.

He was basically unelectable by the time he made the decision not to run.

To have a former governor on trial is a big deal even for Illinois. It just reinforces what is a very cynical attitude among Illinois citizens about politics and politicians. Our expectations and our standards are pretty low. Our politicians try very hard to live up to those low standards.

This should give credence to her position that if you're going to elect a Republican statewide in Illinois, you need a moderate.

For the first time, contributions to Cook County candidates can be tracked through the best database of campaign funding information in Illinois. Anyone with Internet access now will find it easier to search the names of contributors to some of the most influential offices in the state.

It's sometimes very difficult to come back. You've got voters in their 30s who barely remember him being governor. It's always difficult to re-create that kind of connection you had and the context you had in a particular time.

It's not good news for the Republicans if people are still remembering the bad old Ryan days as they head to the polls. It could impact who wins the primary and who wins the general (election).

It's not real clear that all of that money is having much effect. They have to seriously look at that campaign and think about how can they communicate more effectively.