Senator Roland Burris is back in the news. Just as we think the Illinois Senate seat controversy is over, new allegations of misconduct have surfaced. After an interview on Monday, he stated that he had contacted friends to "put together some money" after the former Illinois governor's brother contacted him about filling the vacant Senate seat.No big news? Think again. These statement are contradictory to remarks he made to a committee last month that was looking into impeaching Rod Blagojevich. Burris originally said he had only spoken to one associate about interest in taking the seat, but now that number is four, including the ex-governor's brother Rob.
After much struggle to achieve taking the seat, and much controversy surrounding the reason for his appointment, it is of great interest that he would have made any false statements when so much attention was being given to him. Perhaps he took a move from the Blagojevich playbook.
Some questions to ask of the situation:
- If it is discovered that Burris did engage in quid pro quo, what should become of his current status as Senator from Illinois?
- Should Burris take it upon himself to leave the post if further allegations surface?
- How would you feel if such a situation did occur, and the Senate began hearings to expel him from the body?
1 comment:
When Burris was chosen I presumed that he must have been squeaky clean. I simply couldn't fathom Blago choosing a dirty candidate with the media attacking him from all angles. Furthermore, I couldn't fathom Burris accepting the seat if he wasn't completely clean. I hope for Illinios' sake that he is in fact clean, but I am not so certain anymore. I think the best thing he can do at this point is to be forthright with investigators and promise not to run in 2010 and we'll all just deal with a corrupt politician for 2 years...
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