Burris will not seek reelection to U.S. Senate

The Chicago Sun-Times is reporting Roland Burris will NOT run for reelection to his U.S. Senate seat in 2010, due to his inability to raise funds:

The decision by Burris was based on his inability to raise campaign funds; campaign disclosures with the Federal Election Commission are expected to be filed next week…and he has reportedly only raised approximately $20,000.

Sen. Burris’ decision not to seek reelection, coupled with Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan’s decision to not run for the U.S. Senate or Illinois Governor likely makes the path to winning the seat previously held by Barack Obama much easier for Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, who has to be considered the Democratic frontrunner.