Fallout From Kirk's Comment Weakens Bid for 2nd Senate Term

By SARA BURNETT, ASSOCIATED PRESS CHICAGO — Oct 31, 2016, 1:28 PM ET

Illinois Republican U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk, already facing an uphill battle for re-election, is entering the crucial final week before Election Day weakened by comments about his opponent that critics attacked as racist and "beyond reprehensible."

Two organizations whose endorsements Kirk touted as indicators of his independence withdrew their backing over the weekend, issuing blistering rebukes. Both said they're now supporting Democratic U.S. Rep. Tammy Duckworth.

Democrats are relying on winning Illinois as they look to regain control of the Senate. The party must pick up four or five seats to do so, depending on whether they retain control of the White House.

Kirk spent the weekend away from the public eye — a highly unusual move for any candidate in the waning days of a campaign, but one that allowed him to avoid rehashing the incident in the media. Duckworth had a full campaign schedule, including get-out-the-vote events with civil rights icon and U.S. Rep. John Lewis.

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