Democrats eye Burris's seat

WASHINGTON, March 9 (UPI) -- Several Illinois Democrats are sending feelers on runs for the U.S. Senate seat held by Roland Burris, regardless of whether he runs for a full term in 2010.

Burris, appointed to the seat by Gov. Rod Blagojevich in December before the governor's impeachment, hasn't announced his plans, Politico reported Monday. However, allegations have been emerging that he pledged to help Blagojevich and spoke to members of the governor's administration and family members in the months preceding the appointment.

Burris already has created a 2010 campaign Web site to elicit contributions.

If Burris decides to run, he could find himself in contest with William Daily, brother of the Chicago mayor and co-chairman of President Barack Obama's transition team, and Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, one of Obama's close friends.

Daley and Giannoulias aren't the only Democrats considering a run for the seat, the Washington publication said. Cheryle Jackson, Blagojevich's first press secretary and now head of the Chicago Urban League, has expressed interest in running. Rep. Jan Schakowsky, D-Ill., indicated she could be interested, but insiders told Politico they don't think she would give up her House seat to run unless there is a special election.