Blogging Rule #1: If you don't know anything about a subject matter you're blogging about, don't let that stop you from voicing a completely ignorant, strongly-held opinion on the subject.
Such is the case here at Daily Kos with word that Roland Burris may be appointed to fill out Barack Obama's term as U.S. Senator from Illinois.
The Burris pick is an excellent pick for a number of reasons...
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- Roland Burris has a long history in Illinois politics that has been above reproach. He has never been involved in any scandal, and his reputation for viewing public office as public service is well known among voters. He is not a showboat or an attention-seeker (much to his detriment in primary races for Mayor of Chicago, Governor and U.S. Senate).
- There is no hint of quid pro quo with the Burris pick. He has nothing to offer Blagojevich. He is not a wealthy man, and from his perch in the Senate, he will not be able to influence the federal investigation of Blagojevich. Blago is going to jail, probably for a very long time.
- Illinois needs a (Democratic) senator. Now. Long before any special election could be planned or played out. There has been much discussion among state Democrats of appointing a Democratic "elder statesman" to fill out Obama's term, including Abner Mikva, Dawn Clark Netsch and Burris. Burris is 71. He says he probably won't run when the term expires.
- Should Burris decide to run when the term expires, he'd have to raise a boatload of money because he will likely face some very well-funded primary opponents. If he decides to run and can raise the money, good for him. He will also have to perform as a senator during this interim period.
So the next obvious question concerns Blagojevich's motivations for making the pick. Why would he do this?
Simply put, Blago, as stupid as he is, thinks this buys him time in office. He will stand at the podium with that inane grin and proudly proclaim that he "continues to do the work of the people of the State of Illinois," as if nothing is wrong. Yes, he's that much of an ignorant jackass. (Meanwhile, state government has come to a complete standstill.)
So here's what to watch for following Blagojevich's announcement: the reaction of Obama and Illinois Democrats. I predict that the Burris pick will be applauded by nearly every Dem. Burris is highly respected and well-liked.
We need a senator now and he is an excellent pick.
But don't let that stop you from shouting, "THIS IS A TRAVESTY!"
Par for the course in the blogging world...