Article: Thompson still on lucky streak

Jim Thompson often made it look easy. But it wasn't.

In retrospect, he is credited by politicians and commentators with having matchless political skills. There's no doubt that it took considerable talents to win his unprecedented four terms as Illinois governor. His drive, intelligence and ambition had much to do with his political longevity. But Thompson had something else going for him.

Luck. Thompson was always in the right place at the right time. He is arguably the luckiest man in the history of Illinois politics. Thompson bet on himself and let it ride.

It was pure chance that the political newcomer gained the Republican nomination for the state's highest office in 1976. ...

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