More fun and games in Illinois where Governor Rod Blagojevich has defied Democrat party leaders and President-elect Barack Obama by naming his appointee to replace Obama in the Senate – former Illinois comptroller and attorney-general Roland Burris [Press conference video here]. Illinois Secretary of State, Jesse White, has said he will refuse to certify the appointment and the leader of the Democrats in the Senate, Harry Reid, has stated that the party will veto anyone appointed by Blagojevich – who continues to deny any wrong-doing. But constitutionally, as noted by the Professor, they appear to be on thin ice.. which may be why Obama, also a law professor, is reduced to wishing the problem away..
“Roland Burris is a good man and a fine public servant, but the Senate Democrats made it clear weeks ago that they cannot accept an appointment made by a governor who is accused of selling this very Senate seat. I agree with their decision, and it is extremely disappointing that Governor Blagojevich has chosen to ignore it. I believe the best resolution would be for the Governor to resign his office and allow a lawful and appropriate process of succession to take place.”
Adds More on this from John Kass at the Chicago Tribune – “I’m forced to tip my hat to Gov. Dead Meat on this one, for sheer brazenness.”