CNN

I'm not defending Jesse Jr, but I believe his comments were misunderstood. I believe he meant the longer this thing drags on , the more opportunity for some folks to cry racism.

Whatever happened to the presumption of innocence until proven guilt?

……and we should care about what Jesse Jr says……Why?

Everybody is running around and acting crazy while Blagojevich is sitting back with that tarantula on his forehead with the shadow and smiling.....Blago is no dummy....A little sinister but no dummy

Ian Minneapolis, MN is the only one on here that said the same thing I did right after Blago appointed Burris. It was a smart move on Blago's part to appoint a black man to fill the senate seat. Takes the heat off of him.

It isn't a 'Black Seat' or a 'White Seat'. The disgraceful actions on the part of Mr. Burris should eliminate him from consideration when a real Gov. replaces Blago.

Thank you #5! I hope that they come after you for your Pay to Play! Justice will be served. Looks like Daddy Jackson is passing his poor ideas to you Junior!

Wow, a Jackson warning us about something becoming "racialized." I think I've seen it all. If he's concerned w/ the "racialization" of issues, then he should worry about his own father first.

If you want to know what's wrong with the Justice System and the overreaching by the US Atrtorney's, look at Fitzpatrick's allegations against Conrad Black and the Chicago Sun Times. Over 99 percent of Fitzpatrick's allegations were rejected by the courts. Let the Prosecutor make any case he has - and give particulars of any phantom allegations to Ed Genson, so that the Governor can make FULL ANSWER AND DEFENCE. It's not like Fitzpatrick does not overreach and mislead the court and the public ... and boy does the US Taxpayer ever get hosed paying for Fitpatrick's mistakes!
.

And this coming from the "Snitch" himself. Geezze, that's sooo comforting.

Another generation of race-baiting Jackson's...God Help Us!!

Does the seat absolutely have to go to a black person? Does everyone who wants to hold office have to be black or a women?
With the swearing in of a Black president only days away…….and he wants to cry Racism? Does this seat absolutely have to go to a Black person??

I think these questions only serve to make Jackson's statements reagarding the issue more credible! ""The longer this process takes the more racialized this seat becomes and the more difficult it becomes for Democrats to hold it in 2010,"

My interpretation of Jackson's statements is apparently not the same as some here. The seat doesn't absolutely have to go to a white or a black person. It was Blago who appointed Burris not Jackson. It is the Dems who are finding fault with the apppointment. And the reason the Dems have given for their anti stance on Burris is Blago. So how exactly do Jackson's statements infer racism?

Becoming?

It's been racialized since the very start. And Junior is just NOW figuring that out?

Jimmy from Ravenswood, Queens January 6th, 2009 1:23 pm ET

So what if you're sick of the race card being thrown! The bottom line is that there will be no African Americans in that elite club called the U.S. Senate if we listen to folks that voted for McCain/Palin.
=======================

I can't believe that people are still saying if you did not vote Obama you are a racist. Did you even vote before this election? Would you vote fore a white man running against a black man? If you would then you are one of very few. Around 50% of whites voted fore Obama Around 95% of blacks voted for Obama. This shows whites voting along party lines it also shows blacks voting on skin color.

His papa coached him well

Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. is right, and every one needs to understand his real concern, which is more about the interpretation of the situation than any other consideration.
Believe it or not, we don't all interpret things in the same way. Some one woul see this issue as racial, and the other can see it as not racial. Even the National Media has the very same concern as Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., and they are right. Considering the fact that Senator Reid has also remonstrated against the pick of three other black candidates.
Believe it or not some people also considerer the action of the Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White as one those cases of "Black against Black crime" because Mr. white is acting against the law. The law doesn't say that the Governor and the secretary of state, together, appoints the Senator

Little Jwesse Jr. should worry about his own scandal. Hasn't he learned anything from wathcing his daddy over the years?

The democrates just made Nancy Pelosi speaker, once again.

They must close their ears when she speaks!

I agree with PA completely, He is not saying it is racism but the simple fact that It will drag on and it will eventually take on a racist tone. Becuase if Burris is clean and qualified then why prevent him from obtaining the seat in which he was appointed. Because the governer screwed up???? How is this Burris fault?

And To ree: Not every seat has to go to a black person but answer this How many blacks are currently in the senate....0 So you mean to tell me there isn't a qualified black man around to hold a senate seat.

Typical Jackson lingo, everything is about race. Thats how his dad made his fortune. There is nothing racist about Burris being denied. It is about a criminal governor who violated the oath of office. Noting should be made official by this guy and I am amazed Burris would even except. Where is the ethics, he's looking more like a guy obsessed with self gain.

I wondered when this issue was going to come up-yawn.

There it is, I knew someone would say it and guess who, one of the race mongers themselfs, Jackson Jr. , Lets bring race into, dont speak the truth that its tainted, just bring race into it and they will back down. Its the I'm Black You are White thing all over again. Racism has many colors, but I usually only hear one crying more than the others

Someone is asleep at the switch – Blago should have been temporarily relieved of his right to appoint anyone, black or white , brown, yellow or any colour in between until this mess he created is cleared up and he is proved guilty or innocent. Burris seems like a good man and could probably win this seat anyway , since Blago is completely within his rights to appoint anyone he wants, it's simple, Burris should be admitted to the Senate and America can get on with the business of moving forward into a better place. God bless PE Barack Obama and the GREAT, GREAT USA.

Obama's top pick to fill his seat was a black (albeit female) who always was his wife's former boss.
Was he racist for his pick?
Bobby Rush also cried racism over not seating Burris. However a few short years ago Rush decided NOT to support the black candidate for the US Senate and instead supported the mulit-millioniare white guy (which dud – meant no black US Senator -exactly what he's decrying now?). By Rush's own standard, he's racist.
Or is only whites can be racists? Not blacks? Not Asians? Not Hispanics?
Lets not forget that Jr's dad called new York City Hymietown when Ed Koch was mayor. Could be racism runs in the Jackson family.

I appreciate Keisha that you used a big word "Inept", but the fact is if Jackson doesn't want this to become racialized he shouldn't be bringing unnecessary attention to this! By the way racialized isn't accepted by spellcheck go figure!

Keisha M, my sistah, you are right.

The poor intollerant, hateful bloggers below did not even bother to read and understand what Jesse Jackson Jr was saying. He was IN NO WAY latching on to RACE. HIs comment was balanced, even and insightful.

Seems there are too many people afraid of anything that comes out of the mouth of a guy named Jesse Jackson ... so much so that they can't even take the time to think before they spout off.

shut the hell up, jr. you're a bigger racist than your old man.

What a profound statement.

Leave it to a Jackson to introduce race into this.

hahaha. this is hilarious.

YOU were one of the candidates Blago was trying to sell the seat to!

Its not like Blago was arrested on some bogus corruption charges. Thats not why people are attempting to block his appointment of Burris.

Burris' appointment is not being blocked because of racism, as those who love to play the race/victim card would love to have you believe.

Blago was trying to sell the Senate appointment, pure corruption, and that is why the appointment is being blocked. Not racism. Because the seat for which the appointment was made was DIRECTLY at the CENTER of the CORRUPTION charges.

The Senate seat and the corruption charges are intertwined and connected. Don't try to distract from the fact, but then again, Jackson Jr would benefit from the distraction, seeing how he was one of those apparently willing to pay in order to play.

How is it that people are so surprised by this? As if corruption just entered Chicago politics? Riiiiiiight. get a clue.

"JEN" – EVERY BLACK PERSON DOESN'T CRY RACISM. Let's get that straight first. I don't appreciate anyone putting one race into one bucket. I am an AA and I know that this is not racialized. This is clear retardation of the law that someone can't be IMMEDIATELY TERMINATED for Blagojevich's actions. If it were any of us "normal people", we would have been terminated first and our cases heard afterward (probably not for years later). Be mature people; call it for what it is. JESSE JACKSON JR. IS PLAYING THE RACE CARD!

This is a huge distraction. Blago just did this to take the heat off because he knew the senate wasn't going to seat anyone he appointed. So he put in an african american so there would be controversy, thus taking the spotlight off of him. Last week every story on the ticker was about him. Now every story is about burris. See the connections here? I donno, I think politics has become the world of celebrities now. It's all gossip and controversy....for the media outlets to get ratings.

Typical Democrats -The only thing that is important is the next election,not right or wrong,black or white,ethics–just the next election.

racism.

hahahahahahhaaha

you might have thought this GARBAGE was over when we elected BARACK OBAMA, the mut (as he put it), who is half black.

If we are so racist, how in the hell did we elect a black president?

Reid is the Democratic version of the guy from Idaho whose name noone can remember.
Reid is a jerk who was afraid of the Bush Trash and did nothing until now and simply wants he time on FOX TV. It is just a stupid old man trick to get famous before he is replaced. It is not about race, it is about being as obsolete as McCain.

THIS,,,,,,,,,,,COMING,,,,,,,,,,,FROM,,,,,,,,,,,,,A,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,PAY,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,TO,,,,,,,,,,,

PLAY,,,,,,,,,,,,HACK

You people become really upset when the word race is use – Are you guilty????

"The longer this process takes the more racialized this seat becomes and the more difficult it becomes for Democrats to hold it in 2010," -

-only an inept person would read that statement and decry that Jackson is implying or imposing racism- he's saying just the opposite- that the longer this drags on the more racialized it will become
-sometimes we need to read the words for what they are and not for what we wish them to be

You people are brain dead! He is referring to the Dems like Blago and Congressman Rush that have used the race card as an attempt to force the Democratic leaders to seat Burris. I am a black Democrat and I was appalled by Blago & Rush using words like "lynch" and "hang." Burris is genuinely qualified for the position, but he should have refused it because it is tainted by Blago.

Burris should be welcomed to the senate. Reid is a jerk and a fool and thinks he looks cute on TV. Reid has to shut up or get out. We are not amused. Reid could not stand up to the Bush trash, now he is trying to act powerful. Reid is the Democratic version of the guy from Idaho whose name I can not remember.

Racialized? No one except the jive talking Jackson/Sharpton muckraker bunch would make up a word that stupid. The problem is nobody is falling for the hype. We have a black president. and he wasn't elected because he was black, he was elected because he is the best man for the job. Roland Burris's ego is his own worst enemy. He is way out of his league trying to play hardball with seasoned politicos. Instead he should have stayed home and let the situation play itself out. Judging by the way he has handled this situation, he probably would have been an ineffective legislator anyway.

Blago is playing the race card to assert his authority; nothing more. Sadly enough, he'll probably succeed.

The only people trying to attach race to this seem to be African-American.

If they want to shoot themselves in the foot, and other appendages, that's their call.

But I sure hope they knock off all this nonsense before they do themselves serious credibility damage.

JESSE JACKSON SHOULD KEEP HIS DARN MOUTH SHUT . HE AND HIS FATHER ALWAYS SPEAK AT THE WRONG TIME. THE RIGHT THING MUST BE DONE AT THE RIGHT TIME. OBAMA'S SEAT MUST BE FILLED BY A CLEAN,QUALIFIED AND LIKEABLE INDIVIDUAL WITH NO DARK CLOUD HANGING OVER THEIR HEAD. BURRIS HAS MADE SUCH A MESS OF HIMSELF AND BLACK PEOPLE AND AT THE MOMENT THE SEAT SHOULD GO TO ANY PERSON OF RACE EXCEPT FOR A SERBIAN WHO SHOULD NEVER BE PUT IN A LEADERSHIP ROLE.

So what if you're sick of the race card being thrown! The bottom line is that there will be no African Americans in that elite club called the U.S. Senate if we listen to folks that voted for McCain/Palin.

I think Carol said it perfectly. Mr. Jackson is "racializing" the situation.

I don't know why black people like to racialize everything. This has nothing to do with race. If anything Blagojevich made it a racial issue and the rest of bought right in to it. He's somewhere now laughing his head off that some people actually bought the whole thing.

Well now, the apple didn't fall too awfully far from the tree on this one did it? Like father – like son.

They said they wouldn't seat the person Blago appointed before it was Burris.

How the hell is it racism then?

Jesse Jr. needs to cool the remarks. Burris is not being seated in a power struggle between an accused corrupt governor and the Senate. Whether or not the struggle is worth is moot. To put a racial spin on this is ridiculous. On another note – what a bizarre way to pick successors – why not just call governors princes??? Have a bi-election to elect (there's a novel idea!!!) the successors. The idea that they can be appointed or the person's spouse can fufill their term in cases of death is medieval.

Everyone seems to be missing the point...we are being played by Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich. It is done to take the light off of him the gov.

what is racial about our black Secretary of State having not signed the black senate nominee?

Blacks racialize EVERYTHING, so why would this be any different. I don't necessarily agree with the decision to turn Burris away as I don’t think they have a constitutional leg to stand on, but these statements by Jackson are idiotic. I don’t consider myself a racist but get tired of the constant winging by the black community who make an issue out of everything they can. Enough already.

So, I'm curious. After President Obama serves his 8 years (hopefully) will some Africans Americans then insist that all Presidents thereafter be African Americans? If Burris had any integrity he would have turned down what he knew to be a tainted appointment. Blago selected him precisely to bring up a racial issue and deflect the media attention away from the fact that he is a crooked Governor.

Oh yeah that the Ultimate defense for some blacks in this country. By the way I am black. They put everything on race as a defense.
Race is undeniable, and a factor of selection in the american society but you have to take it case by case.
How many well spoken qualified blacks has ever have the courage to run for the office of senate or presidency beside OBAMA?
Remember when they've asked Obama if he did not succeed is race has something to do with it he says no but ask the same question to al sharpon or Jesse Jackson they will say yes because they still believe we are in 1960"s.
The society is changing and I believe slowly but surely race will not be a consideration in may be 20 years.

As an African American, I am so very very very disgusted with this has been House Negro I could jusrt SPI T! What he needs to do is go sit his old azz down somewhere and let the people of Chicago decide who should get the seat. I am further disgusted that some white Senators are afraid to somehow offend black constiguents (sp.) by not sitting Mr. Burris!!! What a freaking crock! News Flash White SENATORS!!!!!!!!!!!! We dont care if a black, white, asian, Latino, Mexican etc., is appointed as long as he is is QUALIFIED! To think that black people are going to March in the street if this antiquated relic isnt seated is EVEN MORE OFFENSIVE!!!!! I equate it equally offensive to those whites who think that most blacks voted for Obama because of his Skin. While I dont deny I felt a certain pride in doing such, we voted for the Best DEMOCRAT! Believe me we would have voted overwhelmingly for ANY Democrat as we have in past elections.

What is wrong with you People!!!!!! Why are some white people so afraid to stand up and say …"I dont care what color this man is…..This isnt't Right and we as AMERICAN CITIZENS aren't gonna take it?" You'd be surprised at the Black Chorus that may Chime in with you.

I'm sorry I ranted.

Chicken Little...no one is listening..

This from a man who thought ratting out a member of his own party would get him to Washington. I suppose it was guilt that caused all those white, Hispanic, and Asians to vote a black man into the White House.

This is BS. This isn't about race at all, it's about corruption. And it's not about Burris, it's about the crook that appointed him. The media wants everything to be about race. Like the headline about Latinos being disappointed with Richardson's withdrawal. My whole family of white Southeast Missourians are disappointed, and most of us would love to see Burris seated. Jackson needs to quit listening to his racist daddy.

Jesse Jackson jr. needs to go rot in a hole somewhere. Had it not been for his own political ambitions this entire nonsense would not exist. I only wonder why someone so obviously biased against the Governor is being given any validation by the press or the public.

As long as its not a white male....we hate those people!

Regardless of political affiliation, it's nice to see that most everyone is sick and tired of the Jacksons, Wrights, Sharptons, etc. of the world. These guys thrive on promoting racism...it keeps them in the spotlight. I have the luxury of being bi-racial, so I look at the person's ability and integrity...not if they're black or white. But the likes of Jackson are the most openly racist group I have witnessed.

Typical Democry-babies. There will always be "people like this" who argue about racism for the sake of making news and keeping their name in the media. Your life is so sad to me Jackson. I thought this nation just elected its first half white/half black President, and you're pointing to racism over this Burris character? The apple doesn't fall from the tree I guess...typical Jackson family BS.

Cry racism (or in this case racializing)... a page from Obama's book. Oh come–Like O didn't do it either in primary.

Racism is a smoke screen here to block the bigger picture-Blago is on tape trying to sell the seat of a Senator who was just elected President. Now he appoints someone to the Senate who had NEVER been considered before this scadal came to light, and who was in fact his second choice after the first choice turned him down. Does anyone see a problem here?

Jesse Jackson is thinking of his political future and trying to stay on the side of the "poor black guy". Well, I'm sorry, but this black woman isn't falling for it. It's a new day, and I really wish people would stop crying racism where there is none. That makes it impossible to take action against real racism that happens every day.

He (Jesse Jackson Jr.) should have been the one to take that seat.

I think Burris should have declined the Governor's appointment, he is a very strong candidate to get the seat. He should have just held off until the whole issue is sorted out. Everyone was VERY clear about not seating a Blago appointee long before a nominee was named so race is definately NOT an issue.

Jesse jr. Learn to shut up. You got caught trying to buy that Senate seat. And then tried to say you were a snitch for the FBI only the FBI never remembers that in order to try and cover it up. Your career is dead snitch. If people think Blagojevich is guilty then so are you. There is as much evidence against him as there is against you.

I think Jackson Jr. better keep his yap shut since he was was trying to buy the seat from Blagocrook. This has nothing to do with color yet these clowns are trying to link color to loosing the seat in 2010. The Dems are going to lose the seat, but it will be because of the the way they are handling the Blago circus.

I dont know what to make of it, but what does the law say about it? Burris has the right to go to Washington and the Senate has the right to do whatever the laws LET them do. So this is the result. Perhaps we should REWRITE laws concerning tainted officials.

In the recent past, I had hopes for Jesse Jackson Jr. to raise above the racial issues ,so ofter raised by his dad... I'm sorry to say that it appears I was wrong. I guess the apple really does'nt fall far from the tree.

Jesse jackson jr was the co-chairman of the obama campaign. This is not change you can believe in. What do the american people have to say about this who rejected a great man in McCain.

well well well..................so typical of JJ Jr. and all Dems. What do you expect? I mean if your undercover crooked then your fine but if everyone knows...................shame on you.

Everything is racism to these people. If they can't get their way, cry racism.

Mr. Burris has done nothing wrong. Seems like a good man. They should seat him and be grateful for his vote. Pelosi and Reid are behaving like bullies and this doesn't look good. I doubt that slimey Blagojevich got a dime for this selection. (but he needs to go to jail anyway!)

I am soooo sick of Blacks throwing out the race card.. I havent even heard much on the race part of the reasons and such for either way of Burris situation... it all rest because a WHITE guy has been arrested and because of how he was to fill this seat brings alot of questions whether or not Burris isnt in if for the wrong reasons regardless someone else should make that judgement on who is right in that Seat not the Gov. He has lost all credibility at the moment.

This is typical Jackson Clan!!

I think it was the ex-Black Panther Bobby Rush who made this a racial issue from the onset. Jackson should be more concerned about he upcoming legal issues than getting more invovled with this. How much money did he offer Blago the Clown for the seat? Stop the Jackson family from continuing their strong arm tatics!!!

What ever happened to the notion that the most qualified people should be the ones to get elected and voted into office?

Like father/like son. these crybabies know nothing but to cry racism when things don't go their way. How 'bout – the best man for the job – whether he is black, white, red or yellow. Can't have it both ways – if you don't cry racism there won't be any.

Mr. Jackson consister what you have been through, why didn't you tell Mr. Burris what he should have know. Get his paperwork in order.

Gov. Blagojevich sign the paper and the Sec. of State of Illinois Jesse White did not, now what does that tell you get the paperwork in order.

Let's stop hollering Race ? Do what the consititution tell us to do and do it by the law that was made. Get your paperwork in order.

The last person who could possibly contribute anything of value to this debate is named Jesse Jackson, whether jr or sr.
It does appear that due process was followed, and Burris should be the man, though. Not seating him would be the same as going back through and undoing everything the governor has done, because he might have been commiting a crime while doing his job.

Of course, this dupe doesn't explain HOW, or WHY this has even the SLIGHTEST resemblance or anything at all to do with racism. Just like a two year old who learns that a temper tantrum buys you your way, Jackson has learned that pulling out the race card at ANY TIME, for ANY REASON, no matter HOW ILLOGICAL or far fetched will get you what you want...hmmm, maybe even a senate seat yourself, eh Jackson? Like father like son. What a corrupt man.

Dude, race doesn't have anything to do with this......Our PE is against seating Burris . The race issue has little to do with this seat.....Let Burris put himself on the list just as you have Rep. Jackson. Then the best person will be choosen. I am 60 yrs old , whit guy who HAPPILY voted for Obama.........Change has come to America ACROSS THE BOARD AND TO ALL SPECTRUM's of the USA. Go Obama

There is nothing racial about this. After all Jesse White, Secretary of State that refuses to sign off on this is BLACK!!!!

Racism. . . . .why is that always the claim when a black person is halted by a. regulation that is NOT in their favor??? The issue is the cloud of selling the seat. The people of ILL. should be holding an election instead of allowing anyone to be appointed. Perception, perception. Guilt or innocence will be proven later, but anyone with real integrity would NOT want to be appointed under such a cloud of impropriety. This has the least possible connection to racism; much like saying a cloud is white and fluffy or dark and stormy- or is it now racist to call the cloud white.? Now that Afro-Americans have ARRIVED, can we please stop with all the racist entitlement crap. We are all Americans, stop with hyphens. Or else start hyphenating everyone – that includes: Danish-Americans, Spanish-Americans; French-Americans; Dutch-Americans; Russian-Americans; Libyan-Americans; Chinese-Americans – - – - do I make my point. Just calling someone by their hyphen is showing racism since you are pointing out their DIFFERENCE from the rest of us.

The Governor of Illinois played a excellent hand – divert attention from his scandelous actions. He and his wife must be enjoying this moment at the expense of not only the citizens of Illinois, but the entire United States. We have achieved a great moment by electing the Barack Obama as our 44th President. You would think that Democrats would unify, but nooooooooooooo. Keep it together people!! Mr. Burris, please step aside and STOP this nonsense!

Dude, that's so weak. It’s not about race. It’s about Blagojevich.

This guy, of all people, should just shut his mouth. Period. Or will we have to buy his silence?

What isn't racial to this guy. The Jacksons will play the race card for the rest of their lives...it's pathetic

it is???? only by the racial alarmists like the Jacksons.... why is it that any problem, no matter what it's based on, becomes a "racial" issue for these people? GIMME A BREAK

The Burris issue is a legal and ethical issue, not a racial issue. SHUT UP

Stop using the Race Card............................things has change and some still wants to live in the pass. This is a new season and hope
hope is for everyone. Racism , free your mind and your as/ will follow.
Jackson is just upset because of what has happen to him so he is
passing the card.

It is becoming racialized when he is racializing it! In dictionary dot com, the #1 definition of racialize is "to impose a racial interpretation on" – not observe but IMPOSE.

This is like crying wolf. No one will take it seriously when real racism is pointed out.

Jackson stay out of this if you want to run in 2010 for that seat. Burris need to remember no one owes him nothing whether he is black or white.

I agree. I believe this country has more than shown that we can rise above racism and for Mr. Jackson to insinuate that denial of Mr. Burris' seating in the senate is "racialized" rather than addressing the real reasons – the tainted process by which Mr. Burris was appointed, is absurd.

What is racialized? This has nothing to do with race. I like Jesse Jackson Jr. but he's wrong.

If this is racism (which it is not), the perps are Blago and Burris!!

Jackson isn't crying Racism he is trying to enlighten the Democrat Party, err Reid and Pelosi, who don't want elightenment on this issue, that they are by their own actions making this appointment look like a Racist stand. And Jackson is trying to enlighten the Dems to the reality that this will not bode well for them or their party. They are making their Party look small and petty. Not the time for this when they are inaugurating their President and talking about a cohesive, let's all get together Government whilst blatantly representing the opposite through their actions on the Burris issue. They need to think of their party and President vs. themselves! They have bigger fish to fry!

I agree that Burris has all the qualifications, but as far as the racial stuff, that is showing the nut doesn't fall far from the tree. It is more the libs being libs, rather than following the constitution of the country and the state. His father has never apologized for inapproriate or incorrect statements, so don't expect deep thoughts or apologies from the son.

It's racial because Jackson and Rush are making it racial.

Jackson will one day hold this Senate seat because he is younger, smarter, and more principled than Reid and others.

There is no intellectual or factual basis to deny Burris and Democrats, ultimatel the more erudite of the two parties, won't be able to ignore that. Reid is pulling the Democratic stock down by delaying the swearing in of Burris.

Blogoevich has outsmarted his critics with this appointment of a man that has an unimpeachable resume for this Senate position. Burris may not be the most re-electable candidate or one that can hold the seat for decades like many other US Senators but he has been appointed consistent with the law. It's that simple . . . Move on ...

How are the credentials in order when the Secretary of the State of Illinois has not signed them. Blago's tainted signature is not enough. Blago found himself a perfect patsy in Burris, all ambition no common sense to realize he's being used. Blago should be impeached, and a special election held at the same time that they are doing one to fill Rahm's seat. This is the only way to wipe off Blago's stink from any nomination.

Are you serious Jackson? How can you, in all seriousness, claim this is a racial matter? It's 2009, we have elected a bi-racial President and the country is preparing for his inauguration and celebration around the world. Racial? This is not about race. This is about men and women who are outraged that your governor has been caught on tape, is arrested and out on bail for trying to sell political appointments for his own benefit. It's because of Blagojevich's desire to benefit from his office that people are outraged. Race? This is all you see when you look at this mess? Please try to keep up.

He has every right to be seated, but I am relishing the Democrats destroying their own and their own party will pay dearly down the road as many African Americans are rightfully ticked.

Bloggy is he Democrats gift to Republicans that keeps on giving.

With people like him, Rahm, Richardson, Edwards etc, etc, etc you liberals can get off your ethical high horse and "ride em' dirty".

Your stay in power wil be a real short one.

Now if we could only find some moderate Republicans to run he show and not right-wing crazies, moderates, even moderate Democrats that support he military will do………….

it's obvious ... if you don't get what you want..yell racism!

Barb,

Obama was the only African-American senator, it should go to an African-American otherwise there is no African-American representation in the senate.

My sentiments exactly.........The seat is being relinquished because the current African American Senator has just become the first African American President. Burris may be justifiably qualified but he accepted this appointment and the firestorm that it carries. This has nothing to do with race. Stop playing the card!

Did Jackson get his name back?

Im tired of Jackson... shouldent he be in jail for bribery?... I mean geez I bet his father is like "Geez son, you think you could do a bribe correctly by now? CMON... off the stage CNN hes a criminal

I don't know what's going on here but somebody is trippin

How will this make it racialized?

Does everything have to be turned back into a race thing.

ugh.

I think the Democratic leadership is showing a lapse in good judgement and respect for the law. What must be realized is that the governor of IL was wrong in his conduct in trying to solicit the senate seat of President-elect Obama but the fact remains that he is still Governor and has not be impeached or convicted as of yet. He still have all the powers of Governor and could appoint anyone one he likes until the power has been stripped from him. Secondly the senate can not designate whom they want for senator to represent IL. The law states that a sitting governor for that state can appoint a senator of HIS choice to fill the seat. Seat Mr. Burris and move on. There is too much other important business to be conducted. As for Harry Reid, I feel his leadership in the senate will not be much longer. Not a thoughtful or deliberate guy. Makes alot of decisions that he has too back track on. Trust me this will be one of them. The LAW is the LAW.

I normally don't nit-pick on things like this, but please tone down the red in the picture of Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. It looks like he's sitting under a heat lamp or something.

And also, "senior Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin" is missing an "o".

The issue is only "racialized" by people like Jackson Jr. who intentionally use race to inflame an issue that has nothing to do with race. This is a legal matter under constitutional law and has nothing to with Burris. Why does Jackson interject race into every possible issue? This type of behavior only contributes to the division in America.

With all due respect, I think it is Jesse Jackson Jr. who is making this a racial issue.

There is a typical Son of Jessie Jackson statement.. Lets bring race into the spotlight when there is no racial issue. Roland Burris's appointment was tainted and THAT is why there is so much to do with blocking his appointment.. YES it is a political power play by our useless, impotent, and helplessly stupid politicians, but definitely NOT a racial issue... Get a brain JAckson !!!

From the looks of it, race is not the issue, so don't make it one!!!

The issue is that the appointment comes from Governor Blagojevich who alledgely planned and tried to sell the seat to anyone willing to meet his price. If it can be determined that Mr. Burris was not one of the people involved in attempting to make the illegal transaction with Governor Blagojevich for the seat, there should not be a problem. The governor was still in his position and carrying out his job requirements, therefore, the appointment should take the normal route for swearing in the appointed, Mr. Burris. If Governor Blagojevich had been removed from office by impeachment or imprisonment, then his successor should have been the one to make the appointment for the replacement.

Those not wanting to have any controversy over the appointment, should have taken action to successfully remove the Governor Blagojevich from office.

IT would not have made ANY difference regarding this appointment , even if the potential appointee, was white, black, gay, green, male or female, jew, or athiest. They were not going to accept ANY appointment from Blagoevich period. Its time for the Jackson whiney butt era to move on. For him to claim racism, doesnt hold a drop a water...Whenever the african american constituentcy doesnt get its way, it hides behind racism, if they have no other valid argument to advance. I personally think he need to be quiet as it appears that his hands aren't exactly clean neither. I am also a democrat.

It should go to a qualified candidate. The sad thing is it looks like Burris is qualified. He made a grave mistake taking the appointment from the crooked govenor.

Barb, this sort of fiasco is what happened to Affirmative Action. Affirmative Action was originally meant to give minorities, the financially disabled (poor people which included whites), and women the equal opportunity to succeed. It's people like those who are screaming this seat needs to go to a black man or this needs to go to a woman just becuase of race and gender are the type of people who twisted Affirmative Action into what it is today. I agree...Hey Barb, why can't the seat just go to the best qualified?

My comment to Jesse, Jr.? Zip it, pal. Just put a cork in the pie hole, would you? You, Mr Jackson., need to worry about yourself and the slime that might be attached to you in this pay-for-play scandal. You, right now, should be silent and grateful that you thus far have escaped the censure. How long your state of grace will last, nobody knows, but until this is over, you really need to stay on the sidelines with your yap firmly SHUT.

It's morons like you and Burris that make it harder for Obama. Please, will you just think about others and not just yourselves?

If Burris had been white and denied his seat today, would any of these black leaders be crying about racism against white people?

Get a clue. This isn't about racism, it's about a CORRUPT GOVERNOR MAKING APPOINTMENTS THAT SEEM SUSPICIOUS.

Go figure...another Jackson playing the race card...

Thanks Jesse Jr. You just let me win ten bucks... Not only did I pick the day, I picked the person that would say it.

Thanks again...

I am tired of all this crying Racism. Enough is enough.

I agree with Barb. Does the seat absolutely have to go to a black person? Does everyone who wants to hold office have to be black or a women?

If somebody could convince me that race wasn't a consideration in the selection of Burris in the first place, I might not be irritated by Jackson's statement. You can't have it both ways.

I'M CONFUSED, ISN'T JJ JR. , THE GUY THAT SAID BILL CLINTON WAS A RACIST, NOW IS HE FOR EQUAL RIGHTS OR JUST YELLS RACE WHEN ITS NOT. HUMMMMM

Read: If Burris isn't seated, it's because of racism.

Pathetic.

BECOMING racialized???

The party of affirmative action whining about something becoming "racialized." Hello, pot...

If somebody could convince me that race wasn't a factor in the selection of Burris in the first place I might not be irritated by Jackson's assertion. You can't have it both ways.

Only the Jackson's would make this into a racial issue. There is no race issue here the paperwork is incomplete without a signature. Enough said. I'm sick of the race crap get over it. Burris is a good man and qualified for the job. The gov or IL is the one who is also turning this into a race issue as he snickers, laughs and taunts the leadership of the United States and his state. The gov put Burris in this position with full knowledge it would create controversy as and while he thumbs his nose at everyone else. His arrogance is despicable.

I'm black and I call BS on this! This as nothing to do with race! The case is simply that Blago should NOT be appointing anyone when he is under investigation. Burris would have been given the 'go' if he was appointed by a Blago replacement.

BTW, what is holding them from charging Blago, anyway?

(I'll go read up on that I guess) :/

I do not believe that the Burris holdup is at ALL racial! RB tried to appoint another gentleman but he was intelligent enough to recognize the stigma of a RB appointment and he turned it down.

On the other hand, Burris is so full of himself and his self-importance that he was eager to accept the offer regardless of how sleezy the governor is. If you ask anyone who knows politics in Chicago/IL about RB, they will tell you that RB is AND has been a crook there for a LONG, LONG time....

I believe that if anyone is playing a race card, it's RB; he knew EXACTLY what he was doing, when he selected Burris. Hell, Burris was nowhere close to the "short list" OR "long list" of potentials!

Of course it's become racialized. When you're Jesse Jr. just like dad, there's racism in everything that does no go your way

SHUT UP JACKSON JR

As a loyal Democrat and activist in multiple efforts to expand civil rights for everyone, I find the veiled threats of blacks from Chicago to "racialize" the Burris controversy deeply disturbing. If anything, these people should be more concerned that a tainted white governor is using a respected black man to deflect his guilt. And, frankly, by accepting such a role, Burris fails to emerge as a respected leader Illinois and a respected African American. Instead, he comes off as a willing pawn in a political skirmish and, frankly, an Uncle Tom for Governor Blogojevich.

Watch out, here comes the race card.

"The longer this process takes the more racialized this seat becomes ........ "

"Racialized" ? What's race got to do with it? Apparently everything in some people's minds.

I see your following in your corrupt fathers footsteps JJ Jr

Hey where is Big Jessie when you need him ... ah yes Chicao politics,

Jesse, give it up! You tried to buy your way in and, since that didn't work for you, you are now trying to make this a racial issue. You are bad news, dude.

The more people like Jackson Jr. and Rush open their mouths, the more they prove they either don't understand what the ACTUAL issue is here, or they just don't care, choosing instead to try and make this an issue of race, thereby making themselves more prominent.

It wouldn't matter if Burris were black, white, purple, green or technicolor. The man that appointed him made several attempts to sell the same appointment. Therefore, no appointment made by Blago would be legitimate.

Burris, Rush, and Jackson Jr. are just power hungry opportunists trying to capitalize off the chaos that Blago has created. My fellow IL voters should hold them accountable in the next election (although knowing the amount of corruption in IL politics, I don't hold out much hope).

Why is it that only black politicians in IL are raising the race issue?

Didn't they get the message – the civil rights movement of the 60's is over and to run around bleeting "race, race" is sooo not true any longer. Unless of course you're a divisive politician wanting the spotlight...

Jesse Jackson Jr, YOU sir are an idiot! Going to the racial card on such a sensitive political issue is cop-out and sophomoric. Thank heavens you did not get the seat. Go away until you grow up and gain an original thought.

Does everything have to be racial when a Jackson comments on it? Look at the his Reverand father and his sidekick Reverand Sharpton, talk about 2 of the biggest racists in the country. Obvioulsy the credentials were not signed by the other required person from the state of Illinois, making them invalid. Myabe Representative Jackson Jr. should worry more about doing his job for the people he is representing than making false accusations.

Please.... in your eyes, everything is racialized! The majority of Americans believe otherwise!

Why is it that whenever a controversial situation arises involving African Americans, in a nano second they're using words like "racial," "Lynching," and "hanging." I guess they think if they use these words they'll win the argument!

Another corrupt jesse jackson, another playing of the race card.

I hate Illinois politics.

You need to hire a proofreader. Senior is spelled incorrectly.

What stupid comments... There's nothing "racialized" about the failure to seat Burris. Even Obama disagreed with seating someone who was appointed by a process which is currently under investigation. The only person making any mention of race is Jackson and that's not surprising when you consider who his father is. Their whole family legacy is based on race-baiting. It's a shame the illegal actions of the Governor aren't being cited as an issue but instead, once again, distracted by racism. As an African-American myself, I'm angered by comments such as these. They do a serious injustice to any "true" acts of racism that may exist by constantly "crying wolf" over baseless non-issues such as this. Let me be clear, there will always be some pockets of racism (from both Black and White people) but I'm sorry Jacko this just ain't it!

Why is it anytime a Jackson gets involved in something, they usually cry "Racism"! first? People have said TIME AND AGAIN that this is not about the man appointed, but about the man who appointed him. Given the charges against the Governor, it wouldn't matter WHO he chose, white, black, hispanic, etc. It wouldn't surprise me at all to learn that he chose Burris intentionally BECAUSE he is black to try and cause as much difficulty as he possibly can because the feds dared to arrest him because he KNEW this kind of hub bub would surface.

The only thing one has to remember is Ted Stevens from Alaska, had he won his re-election, he would have been seated even though under indictment. Why has Harry Reid and Senate Democrats choosen this hill to die on ? This is typical Democrat behavior after winning landside victories in recent elections to turn around and slap the hands that gave them victory ! This is not Rocket science Harry, let the courts sort it out ! Go after the oil companies who are sitting on huge profits and planning to raise prices based on the economic stimulas plan for the economy !!!

Sorry, Jesse Jr., I disagree......... this IS NOT about race! IT IS about the Blagojevich investigation and crime. No one should accept this senate seat. There should be a special election held, that would be the democratic way.

When Blagojevich wanted to sell the seat, he lost the right to appoint someone!

Jesse is right! Impeace Blago and redo Burris under a the new Govenor.

Donkeys, forgive and forget and move on. Let Burris stay. Why cant you be as forgiven as Bush and Cheney?

Of course it is racial. Look at Harry Reid and the Democratic leadership. Now that Obama has been kicked upstairs, Reid and the other Democrats want to lock the door to their privileged racially-pure club.

Oh goody – another one chiming in. Who's next?

if this proves to be racial, it could hurt the democratic party, the law is on burris's side, seat him.

Here we go again. "racialized ". Can't people do anything without tossing the race issue out there. It is getting old. Before the bashers start, I am black and getting sick of it.

Look, conservatives, your only hope now is to do the same thing that some religious leaders have done: downplay the religions, emphasize the god. They realized that if they could get the morals and the basic ideas through, they could kill the corrupt views that others had ascribed.

Get back to the basics of the conservative POLITICAL stance. Let the other zealousness go and keep focused. You'll lose your party otherwise, because you're not going to gain any new followers with the drivel you spout now. Get updated or bye bye.

PS – I'm an agnostic and I'm liberal, so who cares what I think, right? Just know that if you get back to basics, liberals may even respect you when they disagree with you. I hope CNN respects me by posting this...

It's not about Burris. It's about leadership. We will not recognize the legitimacy of flawed leadership by accepting any appointment made by Blag. It's that simple.

This is not a race issue! Whoever the corrupt governor appointed would be kicked out of the Senate. Even Obama doesn't want him there!

Get a clue. Why is this the first cry of some African Americans? Aren't you interested in putting racism behind us and just let us all be people? This has nothing to do with race, so don't be the one to stir the pot by making it that way, Jr. Please try to rise above all that and just do your own job, the one your were elected to do.

......and we should care about what Jesse Jr says......Why?

In that case, Blogo's scheme is working.

Just like your father – trying to make a racial issue out of everything.

Jesse's just upset that his wasn't the winning bid for the job.

With the swearing in of a Black president only days away.......and he wants to cry Racism? Does this seat absolutely have to go to a Black person?? Maybe that's why some feel Hillarys seat must go to a White Female. Strange!!

There is nothing racial about this situation. Burris could be purple and, as an IL Democrat, I would STILL not support him. Anyone, regardless of color, who is nominated by our corrupt governor is tainted.

Get over it Jesse... this has NOTHING to do with race!!!