Barack Obama was a state legislator whose advancement was blocked in Illinois . There were two marquee political stars in the state : the glamorous new governor , Rod Blagojevich , who had just been sworn in for his first term , and the mayor of Chicago , Richard M. Daley , bearer of the most famous name in local government . Bob Greene recalls Obama rejected idea of staying in place , sought national office . Comment: Greene : People can accomplish the `` impossible , '' but only if they try .
Barack Obama was a state legislator whose advancement was blocked in Illinois . Bob Greene recalls Obama rejected idea of staying in place , sought national office . Comment: Greene : People can accomplish the `` impossible , '' but only if they try .