Former Illinois Gov. George Ryan and rock star Bono of U2 are among 150 people recently nominated for the 2003 Nobel Peace Prize. Here are how the two men measure up:
Bono
As a death-penalty opponent, he is assuredly pro-Ryan
Wants the World Bank to forgive poor nations’ debts
Last big tour was “Elevation”
During 2002, was seldom confused with Sonny Bono
Toured Africa with U.S. Treasury Secretary Paul O’Neill
His band is named for spy plane that spotted Soviet missiles in Cuba
Has released 15 albums
On “The Simpsons,” asked crowd to stop booing Homer
Once said: “You can’t escape the politics if you’re Irish”
George Ryan
As governor, lauded lawyers who worked pro bono
Left office with Illinois $5 billion in debt
Last big act was commutations
During 2002 gubernatorial campaign, was often confused with candidate Jim Ryan
Did two tours of duty as Illinois secretary of state
In 2002, made second trade trip to Cuba
Recorded a 78-minute video detailing his term of office, as required by state Constitution
Middle name is Homer
Once said: “When you’re in Chicago, it’s great to be Irish”
