Hopefuls jockey for Obama's Senate seat

CHICAGO, Nov. 20 (UPI) -- The drama over who will replace President-elect Barack Obama in the U.S. Senate continues with Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich talking to some hopefuls.

The Hill reported Blagojevich had placed calls to Chicago-area Democratic Reps. Danny Davis, Luis Guitierrez and Jan Schakowsky Tuesday and Wednesday. The Washington publication said it wasn't clear whether the Democratic governor also had talked to Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., another Democrat who has expressed a desire to follow Obama to the Senate.

Jackson couldn't be reached for comment, The Hill said

While Blagojevich's office had no comment on the calls, Davis said he had "a great conversation" with the governor Wednesday afternoon. Schakowsky and Gutierrez also reportedly had upbeat talks with Blagojevich this week.

One Illinois politico not expected to be on Blagojevich's short list is state Attorney General Lisa Madigan, who told the Illinois Radio Network she has "zero" chance of being offered the appointment. Madigan has expressed some interest in running for governor, however.