2008.12.31
The Senate should seat Burris
We're writing an editorial today about Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich's appointment of former Illinois Attorney General Roland Burris to fill the Senate seat vacated by President-elect Obama. Many in the Senate do not wish to seat him. There's good reason to think they don't have a choice, but they could then expel him on a two-thirds vote. They shouldn't do that either.
Blagojevich might has been accused of morally reprehensible and probably illegal actions, but he has not been convicted of anything yet. He remains the governor of Illinois and has the responsibility to appoint a senator. The legislature could have usurped that, but failed to do so.
Burris is a bland, non-controversial selection who is not wrapped up in the scandals plaguing the governor. Not seating him would deny the citizens of Illinois full representation in the Senate. The Senate should not punish them because their governor is a dirtbag. When the new congressional session convenes, Illinois deserves two senators.
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Burris paid a $15k for that seat and he should have it.
http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/blagojevich/1355139,roland-burris-senate-seat-obama-blagojevich-123008.article
I'm guessing it would be virtually impossible to find a Democrat who hasn't given money to Blagojevich. But Obama opposes the Blago pick of Burris....for now.
Comment by Henry — December 31, 2008 @ 10:50 am
The democrats have boxed themselves into a box. All of their leaders swore they would not seat anyone Hot Rod chose but they are on very shaky ground legally. The republicans can sit back and watch the democrats fight among themselves while the corruption of the Chicago democrat parts stays in the news.
Burris bought the seat fair and square and I'm sure more stuff will show up as time passes.
Comment by Ken — December 31, 2008 @ 2:12 pm
TALK ABOUT CORRUPTION... THE SENATE IS FULL OF THEM ON BOTH SIDES!!!
If the senate wants to push the american people to their limit.. let them unseat Mr. Burris. Can anyone say "Boston Tea Party"? It's time to throw all the bums out. This is not Mr. Jeffersons' idea of how to run this republic!
Comment by JOHN — December 31, 2008 @ 3:53 pm