Kirk Will Not Challenge Durbin

Illinois: The IL-GOP has been in weak shape for the last several years. And it won't get any easier, as one of their bigger names says that he will not challenge incumbent Democrat Richard Durbin for the Senate seat in 2008:

U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk said as firmly as possible Wednesday he won't run for the Senate in 2008.

When pressed, Kirk chuckled and said he isn't likely to change his mind "unless I run into a wall at high speed."

"I'm entirely focused on the 10th Congressional District in Illinois," said the Highland Park Republican, adding that he is "overwhelmingly likely to run again" for the House in 2008.

Durbin's seat is a pretty safe bet for a successful re-election bid. But it's easier with no significant challenge.