Embattled Cohen Gives Up Lt. Gov. Nomination

The Democratic nominee for Illinois lieutenant governor Scott Lee Cohen says he is dropping out of the race.

This follows reports of Cohen's troubled past, including steroid abuse and allegations of domestic violence.

Since Cohen's surprise victory last Tuesday, he's faced near constant pressure from the media and Democratic bigwigs.

On Friday he met with House Speaker Michael Madigan, and Sunday night Cohen called it quits.

His spot on the ballot will now be filled by the Democratic State Central Committee, led by Speaker Madigan.

Madigan spokesman Steve Brown says the committee could meet in the middle of next month, as originally planned, or earlier. "We'll look at all the alternatives, and find the best candidate that can help Democrats win from top-to-bottom comes November," Brown said.

The speaker previously supported the candidacy of state Representative Art Turner of Chicago.

But the four other Democrats who ran for lieutenant governor - State Representative Mike Boland, union electrician Thomas Castillo, and Senators Rickey Hendon and Terry Link -- all insist they'd be the strongest candidate for the party come November.