We Should Fill our Vacant Senate Seat with a Special Election
Monday January 5, 2009
Okay, I've had enough. No more sitting on the circus sidelines for me. We need a special election to fill Barack Obama's vacant Senate seat.
Obviously, Rod Blagojevich doesn't get it. But, neither does Roland Burris. I don't care how much integrity he has, the fact that he accepted this appointment from Blagojevich seriously undermines my confidence in his judgment.
I'm even more concerned by his easy dismissal of the legitimate concerns swirling around his appointment. He seems to be gleefully tripping over his ambition to seize the seat. That's not what Illinois needs.
To those who argue an election will cost too much for our imperiled budget, I am reminded of what Timothy Egan wrote in The New York Times about Blagojevich: He knows the price of everything and the value of nothing. Let's not be a state that does the same thing.
The election will restore confidence locally and nationally in our Senator and our process. That's what's required here. Nothing less at this point.
What do you think? Leave a comment or take our Poll: Should Roland Burris be Our Next U.S. Senator?
Roland Burris accepting the appointment to the U.S. Senate from Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich. Photo © Scott Olson/Getty Images.
Comments
Not only can Illinois not afford the special election, but do you really want to risk the possibility of losing the president-elect’s seat to the Republicans? This is a distinct possibility, if there is a special election. Plus, the fact that there are no Afican-Americans in the Senate make for a total mess, however I think that a compromise may be in the works, according to what I heard on MSNBC.
I hear you. I hear you. But, I think that the Democrats stunk this one up big time. I’m willing to let this seat go to which ever party can win it in an honest and open election. I’ll be curious to hear if a successful compromise can emerge. It’s hard to imagine one given the mess this has become. I’m all ears. Cheers ~ j
Roland Burris should not be Seated in the Senate he Borrowed what 2 1/2 million never repaid it. with the people facing foreclosure they didn’t get a break. He’s just another Crook. No Blagojevich pulled a fast one anyway. Sent Roland Home. This is not forgive us our Debts as we forgive our Debtors. Only Roland says what repay???? OUT !!! Send him packing