Possible Clash of Titans In The Offing?

This post on Darke Blog mentions some interesting names as possible candidates to run for Ohio Attorney General should Marc Dann finally bow to pressure and resign.

The most interesting match-up, in my opinion, would be Richard Cordray running against Rob Portman. This could be a potential "clash of Titans" because Cordray has a very positive image, he is very bright and has the legal pedigree that any attorney would be envious of. Portman has been gearing up for something. Just what has not yet been revealed. His legal pedigree is every bit as impressive as Cordray's plus he has the congressional and cabinet experience. Could it be that he anticipated what is happening right now and he is now in place and ready to take on the likes of Cordray?

Obviously, there are drawbacks for both individuals. Why would Cordray want to make a lateral move like that? If he were urged by the Democrat leadership as being the one viable candidate who could overcome the stain left by Dann, I can see him doing it for the good of the party. For Portman, is he willing to settle for a statewide position that is perceived as less than the governorship and would the Republican leadership want to use him on this position. If he lost, a real possibility given the state's current lean to the left, it could hurt him as a candidate as a possible replacement for George Voinovich if he decides not to run for senator again.

So, in the end it would be a very interesting race to watch and take part in. But I don't see it happening. There is just too much at stake for both men. My early take on a more realistic match-up would be Delaware County Prosecutor David Yost (R) against Cleveland attorney Subodh Chandra (D). Yost would benefit from being more centrally located in the state and more appealing to Northern Ohio conservatives (if there is such a thing). Plus he is from Delaware County, one of the few growing places in Ohio. A lot of people from areas like Warren County will identify with this. Chandra lost to Dann in the primary, but he increased his name recognition among Democrats and he has a pretty good record as far as Democrats are concerned.

One thing must happen, however, before any of this comes to pass. Marc Dann must resign.