SPRINGFIELD - The 2006 statewide ballot began to take shape Monday with a Democrat state's attorney formally announcing his bid for state treasurer and a Republican stepping forward to run for comptroller.

Knox County State's Attorney Paul Mangieri is seeking the Democratic nomination for state treasurer, while Republican state Sen. Carole Pankau is eyeing the comptroller's post.

Pankau, a Roselle Republican, is the only person to step up as possible challenger to Comptroller Dan Hynes. She is a 12-year veteran of the General Assembly.

Meanwhile, a primary fight among Democrats for treasurer may be brewing.

State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka's decision to run for higher office has made the position more attractive to Democrats. State Rep. John Fritchey, D-Chicago, has expressed an interest in the position.

Despite renewed interest among other Democrats, Mangieri said he doesn't plan to bow out. In early October, the Democratic State Central Committee slated Mangieri.

"I find it somewhat intriguing because when the state treasurer's office had an incumbent running for re-election that no one else seemed to have the courage or the conviction I had back in October," he said during a stop at the State Capitol.

Becoming Illinois' next state treasurer is also a good way to jump-start a political career, said Mike Lawrence, executive director of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University.

"Holding a 'so-called' minor state office is a tried-and-true stepping stone into a U.S. Senate seat or the governorship," he said.

Some see Mangieri as a social conservative. The candidate said he personally opposes abortion but doesn't think government should be involved in the decision.

"I think it is an issue that should be left up to a woman, her physician and her family," said Mangieri, father of 12 children.

Lawrence suggested that social issues like abortion have nothing to do with overseeing the state's investments.

"The office of treasurer has nothing to do with the abortion issue," he said. "Both the Republicans and Democrats parties do damage to themselves by applying a litmus test on issues like abortion."

Mangieri also has run for the state Senate and lieutenant governor. He has been the Knox County state's attorney since 1996.

Matt Adrian can be reached at matt.adrian@;lee.net or 789-0865.