Blagojevich to Decide Who Succeeds Obama in the U.S. Senate

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Two Congressmen and state veterans directoramong possible contendersby Dwayne T. Ervin

Now that Barack Obama has beenelected President, there has beensome speculation brewing recentlyon his replacement in the U.S.Senate.

Our next Senator has big shoes tofill. Because its important that thebest person for Illinois is selected, Iwant to be clear that the calendarwont dictate our search. Instead Iwant to ensure that Obamas successorwill understand and fight for theneeds of average Illinoisans,Governor Rod Blagojevich said in areleased statement.

According to the 17th amendmentof the U.S. Constitution,Blagojevich has the authority tomake the appointment for Obamasvacancy. He would have to make atemporary appointment until thepeople fill the vacancy by election,as the legislature may direct.

Blagojevich wants someone whowill work with his administration toachieve his shared goals of ensuringaccess to affordable healthcare,rebuilding Illinois infrastructure,improving the economic securityand livelihoods of Illinois workersand caring for the most vulnerable,Ridgway stated. He also wants thecandidate to prioritize the averageIllinoisan who is too burdened bytaxes and economic hardship.

Blagojevich did not reveal who hehas in mind to fill the vacancy. Thegovernor will be speaking with anumber of people and looking at differentqualifications in the next coupleof weeks to pick the best qualifiedcandidate. It is important thatwe have a qualified person for workingIllinoisans. It is going to be atimely process, added Blagojevichspokesman Katie Ridgway.

Illinois Department of VeteransDirector Tammy Duckworth andCongressmen Danny Davis (D-7)and Jesse L. Jackson Jr. (D-2) areamong the possible contenders, whoweighed in on the U.S. Senatevacancy.

It is good to be a member of theHouse, said Congressman DannyK. Davis (D-7). If I was asked tofill Obamas vacancy, I would notsay no.

I have been very focused on mycurrent position fighting to improvebenefits for the state's Veterans andtheir families, said IllinoisDepartment of Veterans AffairsDirector Tammy Duckworth. Mygoal is to continue to serve my countryin the best way possible."

Like Barack, Jesse Jr. also wouldbe one of the youngest members ofthe US Senate, meaning he is youngenough to serve long enough tobuild up seniority in the Senate,which over time would be beneficialto Illinois residents. (Jesse Jr. wouldbe the youngest member of theSenate,) Rick Bryant spokesmanfor Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr.(D-2), said in a statement.

Blagojevich has to select someonebefore the end of December to fulfillObamas remaining six-year termwhich ends in 2010.

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