Next Junior Senator From Illinois

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Next Junior Senator From Illinois

Next Junior Senator From Illinois
On his way to Washington, D.C., Roland Burris says he's the legally appointed senator from Illinois.
Calling himself "the magic man," Roland Burris on Monday said he is going to Washington, D.C., to be seated as the next senator from Illinois.

Burris, who was speaking to reporters before boarding a flight to the nation's capital where he is expected to try to claim the post that Senate Democrats have vowed to deny him, said his appointment by embattled Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich is legal.

"This is all politics and theater, but I am the junior senator according to every law book in the nation," Burris said. "This appointment is legal. What don't you all understand that what has been done here is legal? That's legal."

Burris' appointment has been under fire since Blagojevich is facing a possible indictment and impeachment for allegedly trying to sell the seat vacated by President-elect Barack Obama, among other issues.

Burris, who is not accused of any wrongdoing, said he hasn't spoken to Blagojevich in the past few days and has no intention to do so, but asked why he should have to ignore the governor.

"Why should I separate myself from Rod Blagojevich? ... He carried out his duties and he filled his vacancies according to law. Isn't that correct? Isn't that what the statute says -- that 'the governor shall appoint a person to fulfill the vacancy.' It didn't say anything about being tainted or being associated with or being" stigmatized, he said.

Secretary of State Jesse White refused to sign the certification that is to be presented to the Senate. Calling White his friend, Burris, a former state attorney general, said he is not angry at White or anyone else, but his refusal to sign the paperwork isn't going to stop him from getting his seat.