[Vision2020] Say What?

[Ted Moffett]

Opposition to Burris in the US Senate (which would just be till 2010 when
the seat would be filled by election) is in part to avoid continuing
political damage to Democrats, given Burris's appointment by likely to be
impeached governor Blagojevich.  The Democrats could be tainted by the
Blagojevich scandal for years, with Burris in the senate as a reminded in
the news over and over... But the image of opposing Burris, who could become
the only African American in the senate currently, implies racism or the
appearance of racism to some, also a political problem.  Burris's competence
and integrity apparently are not the main issues.  But considering many in
politics, these issues are often not the primary focus of who assumes
office.  Caroline Kennedy may be appointed to Clinton's New York US Senate
vacancy, in part based on the clout of her family dynasty, while other more
qualified and/or experienced candidates are passed over.  And Al Franken I
doubt would have won in Minnesota if not for his fame as a comedian.

States can hold special elections to fill vacant US Senate seats, and some
think this is the best option to fill Obama's vacancy, given Blagojevich's
problems, or even in general as a democratic principle, though expensive and
time consuming.

Ted Moffett


On 1/7/09, Tom Hansen <thansen at moscow.com> wrote:
>
> I agree, Paul.
>
> Roland Burris may be totally selfless and absolutely above reproach.
>
> However, I am guessing that even Mother Teresa or the pope would be
> subject to the same scrutiny if appoointed by Governor Blagojevich.
>
> The question, valid or not, that will long linger in the back of many
> minds:  Did Roland Burris buy his way into the United States Senate?
>
> I forget who (I think it was Jon Stewart on The Daily Show)) stated, words
> to the effect:
>
> Records reflect that 48% of all murderers are caught and punished.  Four
> of the last eight Illinois governors have been incarcerated.  This simply
> goes to support that you are more likely to end up in jail if you become
> an Illinois governor than if you kill someone.
>
> Tom Hansen
> Moscow, Idaho
>
>
> > As much as that comment frightens me, and as much as I can't stand
> > Blagojevich, I think they are in the wrong to oppose Burris'
> > appointment.  Blagojevich is still the sitting governor, and has the
> > power to appoint the next Senator.  I doubt the law says anything about
> > "unless the Governor is ethically challenged", or "unless everyone wants
> > the Governor to be impeached".
> >
> >
> Paul
>
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