Chicago’s black community and people close to Roland Burris believe his call to succeed President-elect Barack Obama in the Senate was God’s decision.
Last night, Burris and his many supporters gathered at New Covenant Baptist Church on the city’s South Side to speak out for the man who they believe is being unfairly denied his appointment for the actions of another. In the past week, the Democrats in the Senate have stood their ground in saying that they have the right to refuse Burris a seat.
The problem isn’t Burris, its Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich, the man who chose him that is keeping the decorated, political pioneer from office. Blagojevich was arrested on December 9, on charges that he plotted to receive financial gain by selling Obama’s Senate seat. Since a committee has been formed to review Blagojevich’s possible impeachment, it seems any recommendation coming from the governor is in vain.
If chosen, Burris will be the only black member in the Senate. At 71 years of age, Burris is an Illinois political veteran and was the first African American elected to hold a major office in the state.
Receiving support from U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush (D-Ill.) and countless spiritual leaders, Burris addressed the crowd at the church and made his case. “The appointment is legal,” Burris said. “That is all there is. I don’t know what all the confusion is about.” –
