Only four challenges... so far... in 11 countywide Circuit Court races

This will probably change, of course. But it is remarkable that the majority of the Cook County Democratic Party's countywide judicial slate currently face no opposition and, therefore, no matter how many opponents eventually step forward, will enjoy the top ballot spot in March.

No 'lottery luck' will be required for Pablo F. deCastro, Corinne C. Heggie, Sarah Johnson, Deidre M. Dyer, Arlene Y. Coleman-Romero, Jennifer Patricia Callahan, or Chloe Georgianna Pedersen.

Four of the Democratic Party's 11 slated candidates have drawn primary opponents so far and will have to win a lottery for the top ballot spot in their races. But, since each of these four has drawn only one lottery-eligible opponent each, the odds are 50-50.

Appointed Judge Neil Cohen, the Party's slated candidate, faces a challenge from Wende Williams. Appointed Judge Edward Joseph Underhill, the Party's slated candidate, faces a challenge from Lori Ann Roper. Appointed Judge Debjani 'Deb' Desai, the Party's slated candidate, faces a challenge from former Circuit Court Judge Russ Hartigan. Finally, appointed Judge James S. Murphy-Aguilú, the Party's slated candidate, faces a challenge from Ashonta C. Rice.

There was a rumor going around that Williams, Roper, and Rice were running together. I didn't publish it, because I couldn't confirm it. But this looks like confirmation today.

And, to be clear, all of the above named candidates have filed for the Democratic Primary.

I have not reported about any persons filing for the Republican Primary for any of these countywide judicial vacancies because there are none.

So far.

And, if recent history is any guide, none are likely to come forward either.