Burris Plows Ahead In Senate Bid

Exclusive: "I'm Qualified," Illinois Governor's Pick To Replace Obama Tells The Early Show

(CBS)  Despite overwhelming political support against his appointment to the U.S. Senate, Roland Burris said Tuesday he plans to take his seat as Illinois' junior senator.

On CBS' The Early Show, Burris, who was selected to take President-elect Barack Obama's Senate seat, dismissed his critics, saying his appointment by the scandal-plagued governor, Rod Blagojevich, is valid.

"They're causing the drama, my appointment is legal. Are you saying there is something wrong with me? I'm qualified," Burris, who was the first African-American elected to statewide office and was the former Illinois attorney general, said.

"There's nothing wrong with Roland Burris and there's nothing wrong with the appointment," Burris said.

In his defense, Burris, 71, pointed to Blagojevich's decision Monday to hold an election for a successor to Rep. Rahm Emanuel, D-Ill., Mr. Obama's chief of staff. Burris said it proves the embattled governor still has legal authority to carry out his duties.

"As I read the U.S. Constitution," Burris said, it says the "governor shall fill a vacancy, and as a former attorney general of my state, I have no knowledge of where a secretary of state has veto power over a governor carrying out his constitutional duties."

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., said Monday that Burris cannot take his seat because he "has not been certified by the state of Illinois." Additionally, Senate Democrats say Burris' appointment is tainted because of the charges Blagojevich faces.

Burris has threatened to sue Senate Democrats if they do not swear him in as the chamber's only black member.

[excoachken]

Curious to see Blago using the Race Card. Even more curious to see an otherwise well qualified candidate exploit Blago''s use of the Race Card. So goes 21st century politics.

[evian_ycnan]

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., said Monday that Burris cannot take his seat because he "has not been certified by the state of Illinois." Additionally, Senate Democrats say Burris'' appointment is tainted because of the charges Blagojevich faces.

------------------

For the past two years the Republiscum have labeled Harry Reid as a mealy-mouthed idiot... today he proves them right.

Whatanass.

[cbsnews55]

This is the most important Senate position in the country being filled right now, since our president elect came from it. I think its fine that the Senate takes its time in deciding what to do!

[hatesthecolt]

Burris isn''t properly certified until the Secretary of State signs off and that hasn''t happened. If that is Illinois'' process, then the Senate should abide by it. Let Burris force the signature via the courts if he needs to, but the Senate should require fulfillment of State law prior to seating anyone. To fail to do so would be bad precedent.

[majelen]

If the Senate wants to keep the circus atmosphere in their chamber they will seat the clown.
My objection is that he will collect a senators pay check not only undeserving but for life, retirement included and just what did he do to earn this? When so many Americans are out of work and suffering from job losses. The Senate must get their act going if they want credibility with the American people and the world view instead of clown manship.

[cabbate3]

txgrough your an idiot. would it be better if the democrats were caught up in scandals such as: Scooter Libby (exposing CIA), Larry Craig (doing his little under the stall leg kick action), Goerge Bush (liar - killing over 4K americans, Ted Stevens (pay to play), and the list goes on. Come on now there are scandals on both sides. And its not a democrat whose to blame for the current problems its Ronald R and his Reganomics. Hands off capitalism. Oh thats working well. As far a Burris goes - seat him. They have to its the law regardless of how right or wrong it is.

[afmca]

If he was truly qualified he would have been smart enough NOT to take the appointment from a criminal governor. He should have waited for someone that was not tainted to make the decision. That he is still to stupid to realize this proves to me he should not be in the Senate.

[cbsnews55]

If this were the Republicans, they would''ve seated anyone as long as they were Republican, no questions asked. To a Republican, as long as you tow the party line, you can do whatever else you want.

Ron Paul is a good example of this. He got azzraped by his own party because he''s a true conservative...not one of these biimbos like McCain/Palin.

[cabbate3]

hes 71 he doesnt care. this is his last chance to get into the senate. of course he took it.

[cbsnews55]

SO Buris will sue the Democrats if they don''''t seat him? Right or wrong, if the Democrats seat him they will have no respect for him, and thus who really cares what Boris does or says in the senate in the future, others will ignore him and treat him like dirt.

Posted by peace4321 at 09:18 AM : Jan 06, 2009

Once seated, they can''t ignore his votes.

[cabbate3]

what are you talking about. this post is about burris. not obamas decisions. and almost all of his decisions have been aplauded by 2/3 of americans. so huh?????

[justicewbn]

Regardless of his qualifications and/or desire to serve, Roland Burris should, with humility, put the will of the people first. Imposing himself amidst unanimous opposition from the democrats is an example of political hubris and not what America needs at this important time in our history.

[omega40]

Article 1 section 5 of the US constitution

Section. 5. Each House shall be the Judge of the Elections, Returns and Qualifications of its own Members, and a Majority of each shall constitute a Quorum to do Business; but a smaller Number may adjourn from day to day, and may be authorized to compel the Attendance of absent Members, in such Manner, and under such Penalties as each House may provide.

Each House may determine the Rules of its Proceedings, punish its Members for disorderly Behaviour, and, with the Concurrence of two thirds, expel a Member.

Each House shall keep a Journal of its Proceedings, and from time to time publish the same, excepting such Parts as may in their Judgment require Secrecy; and the Yeas and Nays of the Members of either House on any question shall, at the Desire of one fifth of those Present, be entered on the Journal.

Neither House, during the Session of Congress, shall, without the Consent of the other, adjourn for more than three days, nor to any other Place than that in which the two Houses shall be sitting.

[notblue]

cabbate3, you forgot to mention the Clinton era and their pet project NAFTA.

[alanjeff1]

Yet again someone is happy to disgrace politicians for their own self interest. Its bad here in the UK at times but you in the states yet again show us the way of the future. What does it say on a US one dollar note "in god we trust" clearly you do, regardless of good sense.

[cabbate3]

nice quote but the Supreme Court has ruled that "qualifications" is limited to age and residency. there goes that argument. and he hasnt done anything "behaviour" wise to be expelled. And i dont think the yeas and nays can be entered in the journal because i heard the journal was missing. so theres nothing that the senate can do to stop Burris from being seated.

[alanjeff1]

Yet again someone is happy to disgrace politicians for their own self interest. Its bad here in the UK at times but you in the states yet again show us the way of the future. What does it say on a US one dollar note "in god we trust" clearly you do, regardless of good sense.

[cabbate3]

OK? Where and why would I mention NAFTA? Kinda confused.

[hatesthecolt]

I think this might be going differently if Blagojevich had picked someone who does not come across as such a self-promoting self interested and, though I hate to use the word, clown. Burriss really does present as someone just in it for the glory and paycheck, doesn''t he?

[hatesthecolt]

I think this might be going differently if Blagojevich had picked someone who does not come across as such a self-promoting self interested and, though I hate to use the word, clown. Burriss really does present as someone just in it for the glory and paycheck, doesn''t he?

[gonesouthern]

If he was truly qualified he would have been smart enough NOT to take the appointment from a criminal governor. He should have waited for someone that was not tainted to make the decision. That he is still to stupid to realize this proves to me he should not be in the Senate.


Posted by afmca at 09:16 AM : Jan 06, 2009
``````````````````````````````````````````````````
Very true statement.
Buris is looking for his name in history NOT to truly represent the people of his state.
He is just another Rev. Wright in a suit and that is not what this state needs as a senator in Washington.

[cabbate3]

im saying exactly the opposite. im saying look at the scandals on your side of the fence. theres scandals on both sides and you cant just blame Democrats, Democrats, Democrats.

[nincomp]

and thus who really cares what Boris does or says in the senate in the future, others will ignore him and treat him like dirt.

Posted by peace4321 at 09:18 AM : Jan 06, 2009
+

That didn''t stop the neocons like Cheney and Bush

[getoffmine1]

everything I am hearing leads me to believe this guy would have never been able to win an election. He has been in politics for years and has wanted a senate seat but could never win one. So why should he get the seat now? They were talking about Jesse Jackson Jr. as well. Does anyone think he could ever win an election?
These vacancies need to be filled by special elections. It does not matter what is politically correct, what matters is what the majority wants.

[korak44-2009]

Blago seems to be a lot smarter than he looks.

[cbsnews55]

But they CAN impeach him.

Posted by txgrouch2008 at 09:44 AM : Jan 06, 2009

With Burris'' record, that''s not likely and the Senate knows it.

[xlib]

So where is the moral outrage from the faithful left?? Wouldn''t this guy be the only black senator?? I mean, after all, the chosen one is only half black.
Gee, I don''t see jessie and al calling out harry.
Oh yea, if this were a Republican THEN we would hear the outrage.
No double standard here. None at all.
You people are just beautiful!

[xlib]

nincomp-hey, this is about YOUR guy. Just what the h*&l does Cheney and Bush have to do with this issue? Try and stay on topic-if you can.

[hatesthecolt]

Blago seems to be a lot smarter than he looks.

Posted by Korak44

He''s cunning... that''s different!

[cabbate3]

tcgrouch i cant follow what your saying. you dont make any sense. what does that mean "when did i see you objecting to them." to what? and i dont know you so how would you see me doing anything. Try to string to gether a sensical comment and at that point ill respond meaningfuly.

[xlib]

kassandras1-Typical short memory from a lib. You really don''t remember the wall to wall coverage of abramoff?? Sweetie, that was a few years ago.
Now, based on your innane post are you saying that since these guys are dems and the drama is unfolding as we speak, there should be no coverage?? Is that your point?
Are you one of those libs who really believes that none of your guys can be crooks?? Stay on task now.
As you have all pointe out, your side WON. Your guys are in the spotlight. So, when you shine a spotlight you see dirt. Deal with it.
As for you slam on Bush and Cheney and oil profiteering, do a bit of a search on diane fienstien and her hubby.They made a bundle on "war profiteering". Not covered here, do a search, if you dare.Seems she had to step down from one of her committee positions.
AND, why is dodd still in office?? What about his dealings with Countrywide?? Not covered here.
AND, how about queen nance''s PAC giving a big A contribution to her hubby''s investment company?? NOt covered here.
WAnt me to go on??

[nolalou]

So where is the moral outrage from the faithful left?? Wouldn''''t this guy be the only black senator?? I mean, after all, the chosen one is only half black.
Gee, I don''''t see jessie and al calling out harry.
Oh yea, if this were a Republican THEN we would hear the outrage.
No double standard here. None at all.
You people are just beautiful!

Posted by Xlib

There has been plenty of outrage against Gov Blagojevich from the right and left! The question is NOT rather Mr. Burras is qualified to be a U.S. Senator, the question is does a governor under indictment for trying to sell the seat (among other crimes) have the right to fill that position?

You right wingers aren''t ''just beautiful!'', you''re ''just plain STUPID!''

[lastdance136]

CBS NEWS : Explain this Threat : To use a Firearm
Posted by : txgrouch2008
_____
The world is a safer place beause I have a gun.
The world is a safer place because YOU DON''''T.
Posted by txgrouch2008 at 10:57 PM : Dec 30, 2008

[cabbate3]

hey txgrouch - i feel like i know you - do you live in the midwest - are you sitting in a trailer right now in a robe and tighty whities - perhaps drinking a budwiser - do you have shag rug in your trailer - maybe an 80s style pc with the a picture of jesus on top - a few guns on the wall - deer hunting seasons coming soon - bet you cant wait - huntin''s much better than healthcare right - and free market capitalisms really important to you right - i mean considering your on welfare - i could be wrong you may live in texas.

[clovernyc]

Talk about hubris. It is really sad that Roland Burris is so dead set on showing the nation and the world the hideously ugly and indecent side of Chicago politics.

It is no small miracle that P-E Barack Obama was able to sidestep this poop slinging race baiting nonsense.

[gophwy71]

Typical liberals. Playing the race card.

Bigots

[omega40]

If you say "Bush is Hitler," I''''m turning you in.

Posted by txgrouch2008

Bush isn''t Hitler, he doesn''t even look like him. They do share some ideological similarity though.

[gophwy71]

""""hey txgrouch - i feel like i know you - do you live in the midwest - are you sitting in a trailer right now in a robe and tighty whities - perhaps drinking a budwiser - do you have shag rug in your trailer - maybe an 80s style pc with the a picture of jesus on top - a few guns on the wall - deer hunting seasons coming soon - bet you cant wait - huntin''''s much better than healthcare right - and free market capitalisms really important to you right - i mean considering your on welfare - i could be wrong you may live in texas.

Posted by cabbate3 at 10:19 AM : Jan 06, 2009""""

Are you seriously a LWNJ stooge moron, or do you just play one on PC?

[omega40]

Typical liberals. Playing the race card.

Bigots

Posted by GOPHwy71

The only ones that seem to be making this about race are Republicans such as yourself......Have you read Pat Buchanan''s column today?

[skeeter4419]

Where in the constitution does it state that there has to be a black man,in fact where does it state that you have to be white,yellow or any other color. I am so sick of the race card being played. Go home Mr. Burris . I believe you are there to further your retirement benefits and get a retirement from the senate with one term served and a pension for life, just like a ll the other money grubbing congressmen and senators.

[bobnjersey]

["They''re causing the drama, my appointment is legal. Are you saying there is something wrong with me? I''m qualified," Burris, who was the first African-American elected to statewide office and was the former Illinois attorney general, said. ]

yes ... there''s something wrong with you.

here it is ... spoken very slowly ... ''you were appointed by a loser who was planning on selling the seat to the highest bidder''.

so roland ... you being appointed by a loser ... and accepting the offer from a loser ... makes you a loser too.

[lightnin001]

The circus has begun! Obama hasn''t even been inaugurated yet, the new Congress hasn''t even been seated yet, but we''re already seeing the kinds of "Hope" and "Change" we can expect from the "democrats", that were foretold. Richardson, Panetta, now the Burris meltdown! I suggest that we might now consider an additional descriptive term besides the commonly used "Cluster----", we could also refer to this type of situation now as a "Full Blagojevich!" This is to be expected when qualifications, experience, patriotism, and the best interests of the nation are held in contempt, and only naked politics, cronyism, and self-interest are valued. (By the way, how much did BURRIS pay for the appointment?)

[cbsnews55]

The circus has begun! Obama hasn''''t even been inaugurated yet, the new Congress hasn''''t even been seated yet, but we''''re already seeing the kinds of "Hope" and "Change" we can expect from the "democrats", that were foretold. Richardson, Panetta, now the Burris meltdown! I suggest that we might now consider an additional descriptive term besides the commonly used "Cluster----", we could also refer to this type of situation now as a "Full Blagojevich!" This is to be expected when qualifications, experience, patriotism, and the best interests of the nation are held in contempt, and only naked politics, cronyism, and self-interest are valued. (By the way, how much did BURRIS pay for the appointment?)

Posted by lightnin001 at 11:24 AM : Jan 06, 2009

And I suppose Bush''s little Iraq war isn''t a circus? Oh that''s right, it''s not your kids being blown to bits on a daily basis by US troops, so you don''t give a rat''s azz.

[omega40]

The circus has begun! Obama hasn''''t even been inaugurated yet, the new Congress hasn''''t even been seated yet, but we''''re already seeing the kinds of "Hope" and "Change" we can expect from the "democrats", that were foretold. Richardson, Panetta, now the Burris meltdown! I suggest that we might now consider an additional descriptive term besides the commonly used "Cluster----", we could also refer to this type of situation now as a "Full Blagojevich!" This is to be expected when qualifications, experience, patriotism, and the best interests of the nation are held in contempt, and only naked politics, cronyism, and self-interest are valued. (By the way, how much did BURRIS pay for the appointment?)

Posted by lightnin001

Of course, how many scandals would have trickled out of the maverick ticket of McCain/Palin by now if the shoe was on the other foot? Just yesterday we learned that Levi''s mother temporarily avoided arrest for political reasons seemingly tied to the governors campaign.

[cbsnews55]

so roland ... you being appointed by a loser ... and accepting the offer from a loser ... makes you a loser too.

Posted by bobnjersey at 11:13 AM : Jan 06, 2009

Your definition of Governor of Illinois is interesting to say the least.

[rmonroe401]

"Where in the constitution does it state that there has to be a black man,in fact where does it state that you have to be white,yellow or any other color. I am so sick of the race card being played. Go home Mr. Burris . I believe you are there to further your retirement benefits and get a retirement from the senate with one term served and a pension for life, just like a ll the other money grubbing congressmen and senators."

Yea, down with the blacks! What do they think, they are equals or something! You go skeeter4419! Keep racism alive! Yippeee

[rmonroe401]

Bush=Hitler

[rmonroe401]

txgrouch2008
"He''''s playing the whole deck. He''''ll take the whole Democrat party down with him."

Wow, one smuck from Illinois is going to take down the ENTIRE Democratic Party? LOL, the do grow them dumb down there in Texas, don''t they.

[remrafbn]

txgrouch said "He''s no smarter than the average crook."

That still smarter than you!~ Wait. What am I saying? A moron is smarter than you. "LOL"

[remrafbn]

cabbate3 said "txgrouch i cant follow what your saying. you dont make any sense".

He has a talent for saying moronic things such as "DEMOCRATS GOIN'''' DOWWWWWWNNNNNN!!!!" at a time when they are about to take the White House, the Senate, and the House. Is that going down in Texas? Something is very wrong with the person!~