WASHINGTON (CNN) – Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin said Wednesday that a Senate ethics panel is investigating Sen. Roland Burris following his disclosure that he had spoken with Rod Blagojevich's brother about raising money for the disgraced former governor while seeking appointment to the Senate.
Durbin’s comments came shortly before Rep. Phil Hare, a Democrat from western Illinois, became the first member of Congress to publicly call on Burris to step down, describing the ongoing Blagojevich saga as “a recurring nightmare.”
“Given this latest revelation, I believe it is in the best interest of all Illinoisans that Senator Burris resigns,” Hare said in a statement. “Our state and its citizens deserve the whole truth, not bits and pieces only when it is convenient.”
Durbin, a member of the Senate Democratic leadership, told reporters during a congressional trip to Europe that “the Ethics Committee of the Senate is undertaking an investigation.”
“That is the appropriate thing at this point,” Durbin said.
He added that public statements by Burris in recent days “have raised questions which need to be looked at very carefully, as to the nature of his relationship with the former governor and the circumstances surrounding his appointment.”
Burris defended himself in another press conference Wednesday, and said he welcomed any investigations into his actions by the Senate or the state of Illinois.
“I ask you today to stop the rush to judgment,” he said. “You know the real Roland. I’ve done nothing wrong and I have absolutely nothing to hide.”
From CNN Politics
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I gotta ask: If you had nothing to hide, how come you hid these contacts?
even though raising funds for Blago was not itself a crime or reason for disqualification, he made things worse for himself by lying about it. i dont see how the state legislature has any choice but to ask him to step down if the whole thing plays out like it looks like it will. it is only fair.
Have you noticed that none of the politicians ever " do anything wrong or have anything to hide"?
Are all these people from Illinois liars and crooks?
Burris, you played the race card and that didn't work. Now it turns out you lied to the entire country about the single most important question surrounding your appointment..
Man, you are a disgrace. Resign now !!!
OMG, resign already! I confirms the Dems fears when they tried to block him from joining the Senate.
Senators and Congressmen must avoid the appearance of impropriety.
These republicans will do anything to tear this man down. Give it a break already. How about investigating your own, (Sarah Palin).
There is a saying: You always get what you wish for. Burris is too old not know when something stinks and to back away from it. Just want to be in the spotlight. It's all yours Burris. Enjoy. Dummy
go ahead and resign burris, save the taxpayers a lot of money, that will be helping your country, they need to concentrate on impeaching palin.
No need to throw in any legal jargon on this Roland Burris you’ve painted yourself into a corner; plain and simple you have just squandered the trust you asked for from the people, you asked us to separate you from Blago and we give you the benefit of the doubt. With the trust we bestowed upon you, we assumed you are the victim of circumstances but now you’ve created the conditions and you can be a victim of your own creation and not pay for it politically. Look no further, ask your buddy Blago.
Too little, too late–he should never have been appointed.
This is ridiculous. Mr. Burris say goodbye to your career as a Senator. In two years you will probably be voted out, and unfortunately, replaced by a republican.
That's what happens when you play stupid.
Senator Burris is guaranteed a lifetime pension from the Senate - even if he only served 2 days in office Such is the hypocrisy in Washington and the waste that has driven this great country to the brink.
The ungodly pensions and health benefits that our politicians receive is sinful and out of line with mainstream America, But with the Democrats controlling the House for 34 of the past 40 years, there will be no reform soon.
We have seen the DC, that powerful insiders do not pay their taxes. They are not chased and hounded like most normal Americans. There are the "haves" and the "have nots: And anyone not in DC working for the government (even for a day) is a "have not."
Now ,Obama comes aliong and wants to turn us all into Socialists. Why? He says we all have to pay for the foreclosure crisis – Why? He says we must bail out the greedy union and execs in the auto industry – Why? He says we need to spend billions on welfare. Why?
Obama is not change. He is just another greedy politician who is now on the inside and has "his"
Kinda makes you wonder what else is going to come out the more we learn about this.
Obama is President and therefore I want him to succeed – if he fails, then the country fails and as an American I do not want that.
However, I'm curious as to how he could have been around all this and not have any mud clinging to him.
Burris needs to resign. pronto!!!!
Fire the Idiot.
i am so sick of this man already. More drama then the theater!
Does this mean Burris is going to schedule interviews with Larry King, The View, Late Night programing and other programs like his cohort Blagojevich?
I am ticked, this man should not have accepted the seat if he knew this drama would follow. Chicago really does have their share of crooked politicans.
Harry Reid called this one exactly right . . . but got huge flack from black activists. Nobody should be accepted into the Senate, who comes via appointment by Blagojevich. Race doesn't matter here. Instead, what matters is Burris has the stench of Blagojevich all over him.
Harry Reid was right.
He's a Chicago Democrat... was anyone expecting truth?
Burris said, “I ask you today to stop the rush to judgment,” he said. “You know the real Roland. I’ve done nothing wrong and I have absolutely nothing to hide.”
Isn't that one of Blagojevich's line?
As I remember, most of the cable networks and the republicans were the ones pushing Burris, saying he was legally entitled to the seat. Of course, they were just doing it in an ttempt to make Chicago and democrats look bad. Most democrats never thought that Blago should have been allowed to appoint anyone to any office including Reid and Durbin, and not just because of his arrest either. There were so many other areas of wrong-doing by that nut cup already existing, that he should have been ousted long ago.
Burris is apparently as dumb as he is unethical. I hope he gets to share a cell with Blagojevich.
We in Illinois need to get rid of Burris and then concentrate on getting rid of Durbin. He's pretty sleazy too. The IL political machine has finally been thrust into the national spotlight. We need to take advantage of the situation to clean house.
Gee..another democrat that perjurs themselves. I'm totally and utterly shocked.
Burris is busy digging his own grave, in a self-deprecating way, as we see it. He is wide open for a sucker punch, especially grom the GOP. Enjoy the punch, Burris!
Golly. So tired of hearing about shady characters and lying!!! Can Roland please just step down? Can't we have just one person take the senate seat who hasn't been tainted?
I wish I could say something for the guy. But when you are wrong you are wrong. The only think I can say is that if he tried to pay to play and was unable to do it then that is worst then actually doing it because it means you tried to do wrong and failed at that!
The Ethics Committe of the Senate will hear this. I'd rather have the opinion of 12 kids jumping rope on the street corner. I'd be more apt to believe in their integrity and sense of judgement. Internal investigations conveniently forget to look under all the rocks or inspect all of the bones in the closet. If the evidence slapped them in the face they might then try to justify the bad behavior. It's like police departments or the military investigating themselves. Wink Wink!!!!!!!
We have serious problems in DC ... GOD help us! And yes it's on both sides, it's not a one way street
If you lay down with dogs...
Thank goodness we don't have any of these Illinois politicians in significant positions of national leadership.
Oh, wait...
He had to expect this. You don't get appointed by someone that's radioactive and then wish for a smooth ride.
God, he even sounds like Blagojevich when lying. Governor Ryan move over further in your prison cell, because Blagojevich and now Burris are about to join you.
@ Ula Nejad Sacramento, Ca
That is very distasteful statement. And what foreign country do you come from? CNN should be ashamed of themselves for posting stereotypical comments like yours.
Wow...Ula Nejad...You would think that a person with that name would not make a statement like that. Liars come in ALL colors and political affiliations. If Burris lied then he should resign. Republicans were all over the Democrats when they did not want to seat Burris. Now that their fears seem to have merit, Republicans are saying whining about corrupt Democrats.
WOW.. FROM ILLINOISE,, ONE CAME.. ANOTHER FOLLOWED
I think it is clear Burris won't be getting re-elected so let's get on with what really matters. Burris has been a distraction from the beginning, right or wrong, with the way republicans are behaving, we can sure use his votes in the senate!
He should resign. He never should have been seated. Reid and Durbin wanted to wait for his testimony and it turns out he lied by ommission.
He also seems scatter-brained and confused. He has not held public office in 13 years. What has he been doing? The US Senate seemed quite a bit of a stretch to me.
RESIGN MR. BURRIS!!!
It is amazing how the "political sharks" gather once the first drop of blood hits the water.
Burris is obviously not qualified to be a senator. When he admitted that he tried to raise money for Blagojevich's campain but was unsuccessful, it was proof that he was unqualified. No one could ever become senator without having the ability to raise money
I hope Mr. Burris will not engrave the start and end dates as US Senator on his Mausoleum: it would be exceedingly BAD TASTE!!
The man is 72 years old!!! He did NOTHING wrong and didn't give Blago any money or fund raising!!! Just leave it alone! He's not running in 2010!!! You people would kill your own mother!!
Dems will probably want this guy out, but not for noble reasons. He's not likely to hold the seat in 2010, which is far more important to Harry Reid than any ethical lapse.
get rid of this fool ... let the people of lincoln elect a real senator,,,,,
Attorney General calls America 'a nation of cowards' on race
CNN you started this why close it...?? Grow some balls.. people...
Alfred E. Neumann February 18th, 2009 2:37 pm ET
"Eric Holder proving once again that fools come in all colors"
Well I would say that trepidation freezes the brain just long enough for asininity to settle in. In your case Mr. Neumann its blatantly obvious that you had a head start.
Think about it people, who can he be replaced with. When i hear the term politician i think of corruption, lying, stealing, it's sad to say or feel this way, but come on, the politician of today isn't hear to serve the people, there hear to serve themselves. How can you tell when a politician is lying, thats easy, when they open there mouths.
Carl in Illinois
More proof how awful Harry Reid is as leader of the Senate. He cowered when Blago appointed a black man, and now he looks stupid for it.
Bravo Reid!
Like Fred Sanford used to say, Big Dummy
Why must you foolish republicans try to act like it's only the Democrats who have their problems. republicans are just as bad, but enough said, Burris has sounds about as honest as the governor that appointed him. But this has nothing to do with Obama.
Looks like Jesse White knew what he was doing when he refused to certify Burris's appointment.
Ula Nejad, are you for real? That kind of statement isn't even human. I don't what kind of people you hang around, but I haven't heard talk like that since my racist uncle (by marriage, thank God) and Archie Bunker spouted their nonsense.
Whoever said age begets wisdom never met Burris.
He needs to resign and quit acting the fool.
The people of Illinois should have had the chance, through special election, to fill the seat vacated by Obama. To think that the Washington Dems would seat Burris, induct him into the club, when nearly everyone in Illinois was clamoring for an election shows the extent of the Dems gasping grasp to attain the supermajority they so need to drag us all into the hell of gigantically increased government intervention in our lives.
Throw Burris under the bus, then add Durbin, Reid, and the whole sick lot of them.
Woot!
Mr. Burris, there is a statement that you need to learn once this investigation begins. It goes something like this.........
"I have no recollection of that senator."
Democrats please don't allow republicans to distract you from focusing on your job. There is no need, no sense in all these quibbles! Now that democrats have control of the house, the republicans will use all tricks to create a divide among the democrats, diminish their reputation and win back control of the house. Democrats please remain focused on the real job and avoid all these side-attractions!
It is awful. The people criticized Reid, and Durbin in the begininng, now they want to put the blame on the DEM's. (Whatever) People pay attention, you scream racism, then you cry liar. Burris was getting what he want at the cost of AMERICANS. He is a sneaky, lil rat. He should have never been given that appointment, BUT the voices of the american people were YELLIN, Reid is a racist, they just don't want to see a Black man in the SENATE, PEOPLE!! PLEASE. And stop shouting IL, it is all over, america. WAKE UP PEOPLE!!!!!!!! Pay attention. YES, We can!!!! President OBAMA. Yes we will, you are getting those BUMS in order. Pay attention, AMERICA, as my man Bernie Mac, would say. And last you media folk, learn to respect "44". He is no longer to be addressed as Barack Obama, HE is PRESIDENT Obama. SAY IT LOUD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. UHHHWEEEE, that my friends is JAMES BROWN, hit me.
Mr. Burris (I refuse to call him senator), is a fraud and should resign. He is a liar, just like his former governor!
What has Burris done that 99% of the politicians in Washington have not done? They take rewards from lobbyist, sell their votes , lie then deny, don't pay taxes and most anything else.
Sorta like the pot calling the kettle black.
Another Chicago one lies. And we're supposed to believe the Koolaid that Obama/Rahm are clean???
It's embarrassing to be an American these days.
liar, liar pants on fire!!!
Whitewash coming. These guys can't even investigate Charlie Rangel for all of his tax cheating. Durbin and the Senate Ethics panel could not find unethical behavior if they were sitting in the Chicken Ranch outside of Vegas.
Go Man, just GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Leave & dont show your sorry face again!!
I knew there was something shady about this guy. He needs to step down before he brings more trouble and heart ache to the Chicagoins who have had enough of this curruption cassarole shoved down there throats...
He can go meet up with blago on his jide out vacation spot were they can talk about the good ol' times of being in politics...I hope the message is sent to anyone/politicians that want to cut corners to get to the top...
The dems didn't want him in the first place either – looks like Harry Reid got it right huh?
We have wasted enough hard-earned taxpayer money on Blago and Burris–Burris should resign now. What a disgrace.
Out you go...... next!
Burris for the love of your country just step down , you already qualify for the great pension and health care only a US senator can get. This is truely a waste of every ones time and energy-RETIRE.
Just another slick politician who thinks he can out-smart others. It is obvious that he was not up front with the truth. He never should have accepted the appointment from Blago. whose reputation was so severely damaged. Birds of a feather---.
DISQUALIFIED,
Martha Stewart, Scooter Libby and Lil' Kim all went to jail for perjury. If Burris commited perjury he should not only leave the Senate but he should be sent to jail.
The highest level of coonery. And I am black so I can say it.
U N B E L I E V A B L E !
in EVERY sense of the word...
They were only given a portion of the original amount requested. To obtain the rest of the money, they had to submit a viable plan for solvency in February.
They were only given a portion of the original amount requested. To obtain the rest of the money, they had to submit a viable plan for solvency in February.
This poor foolish want a be old man needs to resign and count his losses and just walk away with some pride. I knew before this came out the he was guilty of something. This same man wanted this seat so badly that he would have done anything to get it and he did. He is as guilty as sin and we all to include he and his wife knows that.This man has ran for a senate seat twice and lost both times. Get real fool and move on and let go of trying to be something that at this date and time is not in your reach. You should have tried somethign difference in the right way to work and help our country. Being dishonest will come back to bite you and you need to know that. Maybe I should say you should have known that. I for one think he should resign and try and clean this up the right way best he can. He is not effective and who is going to listen to him anyway. I think he has issues in the smart tank. He is another Sarah Palin if you know what I mean. Not very smart in the books or did not do well in school or needs to go back to some college or university.
Tainted is tainted and now we hear that he didn't disclose all the details of his association with Blagojevich. Senate Democrats are going to jump all over this because these senators have been tarnished by their original dislike for allowing Burris in at all and now this can be construed as payback. This is why Durbin has to come forward and do this because the senate leader doesn't want to appear biassed which he probably is because he didn't want this in the first place. Burris might as well resign because he appears to have been TAINTED by Blagojevich after all, thus vindicating the Democrats! So long, Roland!
LEAVE BURRIS ALONE!!!
Hey Dems:
I can't for one minute feel for any of you. You had the opportunity to hold a special election but you didn't want to take a chance that a Republican (God forbid) might have won.
So now you have Roland Burris...a gift to the dems from Blago...the gift that keeps on giving.
Enjoy!
Tarnished credibility, best option form Senator Burris is to resign and give Illinois a do-over.
Liers and Biggots and Thieves (oh my.) Liers and Biggots and Thieves (oh my). Liers and Biggots and Thieves (oh my)!
Burris should have never accepted this position from the beginning and now his own self serving aspirations and lies have come to haunt him. BAD CHOICE IN THE BEGINNING, GET RID OF HIM.
Get this man OUT of office. He should have never been there to begin with. Funny how the people knew that but not the politicians.
im a black man and i feel that we need more black senators, but burris is a crook and loud and clear i want a more diverse senate, but not like this. hes a crook and liar my father and i saw right through him on day one. get him out!
Why am I not surprised... Chicago politicians accused of corruption? He was just rushed in there to vote for the porkulus package, now it is coming back to haunt the Democrats. Is there an honest Democrat anywhere?
HE LIED... AND HE NEEDS TO GO!!!!!
Here come the crooked democrats for the next 4 years. Watch how the media plays it down.
Here come the crooked democrats for the next 4 years. Watch how the media plays it down.
Nothing but the finest politicians come from Illinois – land of the free, home of Obama.
Good. Once they have the ethics investigation of Burris completed, they can start on Reid, Dodd, Schumer, Waxman, and Durbin.
Gary,
Pejury is not longer a crime for elected officials. Bill Clinton proved that.
He should have never accepted the post. There is always going to be a cloud over his head whether he committed a crime or not. I think Burris is an idiot.
My fingers are crossed that Burris will step down. He should have never been appointed in the first place. He's a has been that hasn't held political office since the mid 90s. His story changes by the hour. Enough already.
Laura, Boston:
Maybe you should take a refresher course on Illinois State law before you shoot your mouth off again in a partisan fashion and make yourself look like an idiot...
I feel sorry for Mr. Burris. I think he's basically a good person who got in over his head. He thought he could swim with the sharks, but he was wrong and got played by Rod and Rob Blago. Like Dirty Harry said, a man's got to know his limitations. I hope they go easy on Burris, but the two Blagos (and John Harris) should be in prison, and the sooner the better.
Interesting how this is now on track since the Spendulous Vote. Without him, it would not have passed. I see Chicago politics has made it to Washington......
I told you, he is the highest bidder.
Dumbocrats have no ethics, ask Pelosi.
burris is, and for those of us who unfortunately live in Illinois, always has been a weasel,,he has been striving for some kind of significant office in this state for half a century..and voter's have always, for the most part, been smart enough to see through him. And also, for those who want to support him just because he is black, that perception doesn't hold water...especially in Illinois: there have been 4 black senators in this century (if we include the weasel), who served in the senate and, including the weasel, three of them–Carole Mosely Braun, Barack Obama, and, of course the weasel were FROM ILLINOIS..(the other was Edward Brooke of Massachusetts–a Black Republican, no less (yeah...imagine THAT!), so let's forget about that Race thing in Illinois–of everything morally and ethically the state of illinois lacks (and trust me...as the media has become very well aware in the last few months, we in this state never fail to elect to positions of power those who are most lacking in creative t hinking ability, more often than not (there are exceptions, albeit very few) all to willing to forgo any social coscience to the almighty dollar....only to deny they have done so after getting caught at the trough.
I thought Plaxico Burris is the one who shot himself in the leg.
I thought Plaxico Burris is the one who shot himself in the leg not the foot.
Why should he resign, Bill Clinton didn't.
Burris will not resign for political reason. You guys are rush to juge before even listen what happen. We have the only African American senator Burris. He will tell the whole truth if he is asked. He gave answers for what he was asked. the good thing is he didn't lied at that time.leave him alone!
And this revelation is surprising how???
In response to Laura in Boston - holding a special election in this case would have cost the taxpayers millions of dollars, money which we do not have. Also, from your comment, you imply that the residents of Illinois had a choice whether to hold a special election or not – from what I understand, that is the governor's decision (if someone knows different, please let me know).
I live in Chicago and not a single person I know, republican or democrat, wanted Burris as their Senator and we all were in complete shock when the offer was made, as well as when it was accepted. It is clear (even more clear now) that Burris is looking out for himself and looking for more "impressive accomplishments" to engrave into his mausoleum.
(Reading these comments, I am very disturbed by the state of the country when the only thing that ever seems to get accomplished is increasing the hatred between the two parties – we need to get rid of this distructive two party system. Anyone out there have any ideas?)
Dutch,
Maybe you didn't read the story but the leading people in it were all DEMOCRATS!!!! This has nothing to do with party afiliations anymore. This is about a crook getting caught. Plain and simple.
COME ON GUYS! Give up the Democratic/ Republican slam! I voted Dem., but I think this guy should step down. There are good as well as bad people of every political affiliation. Some people just get caught, and some are sneekier and never do. I mean after all, whatsup with the Palin/tax deal?
oh please, folks - liars and idiots come in all flavors, democrat, republican, independent, etc. And money and power will corrupt any unethical person.
The only way to make this not happen is to make the compensation for commensurate with the work.. and maybe require an IQ, history & civics test, and an ethics test...
Without the money attached to the job, greed plays less of a role; without knowing history, a person is more likely doomed to repeat it; without ethics, power is a corrupting influence.
This is Illinois problem. They let him in...let them deal with him. Not like we don't have more important things to focus on. Will one crooked politician who has his accolades already engraved on his tombstone really make a diffence in the Senate? Don't sit him on any panels or committees...he will be nothing but one vote. Who cares?
More drama from Barack Hussein Obama friends. lmao!!!!!
I like how the Senate let him make his own bed. He has nobody to blame. Did they prove that he did this for that? Is trying to do this for that enough?
Isn't it funny how when a Republican does something crooked all of the repubs come out and defend him. Then when a Democrat does something crooked all of the dems come out and say, " the repubs do it".
Sort of reminds one of grade school. If a politician does something wrong, they should be held accountable regardless of party. If the public would demand this, a lot of this foolishness would stop!
It is obvious that Burris is a bad apple – He must go.
Don't worry, he won't lose his seat. The Senate will be afraid of being called racist if they try to get rid of a poor Black Man, who's being punished by "The Man"! Pretty soon, Jesse, Al and the rest of the so called "Black Leaders" will be all up in arms over the Whites trying to "lynch" a Black.
The guy has to be really stupid. Has he listened to the testimony he gave on TV and now what's he's saying?. Leave him in Washington, they need another clown to go along with Reid, Kennedy, Pelosi, Frank, and Franken. Don't the networks know what they're missing by not creating a comedy with these clowns??? Maybe one of the skits could be "How to create jobs with Condoms" starring Nancy "Botox Face" Pelosi
(Reading these comments, I am very disturbed by the state of the country when the only thing that ever seems to get accomplished is increasing the hatred between the two parties – we need to get rid of this distructive two party system. Anyone out there have any ideas?)
Well, we could start by actually having liberals and conservatives TALK to eachother instead of spew text at each other that would land each and every one of us a solid punch in the mouth if we said it on the street. I know that I am guilty of this as well.
In all honesty, I don't think that it's that bad out there. It looks down right awful here on the Ticker, but mostly because people here are anonymous, and will say a lot of really crappy things to each other if they don't have accountability.
I think that places like the Ticker just make people more angry at each other. I know for a fact that I walk away from this blog every day thinking that Republicans are the scum of the earth from what I read, and I'm sure they think the same of liberals (look at the comments of every Palin article for proof).
Did Burris break any laws?
If not, then leave him alone.
Go after the real crooks like Coleman and Palin.
Tina,
Since when have democrats worried about spending money the do not have?
Mr Burris made his bed, so now he should lie in it! He wanted to be a Senator so bad, he did not care about the taint associated with taking the appointment. That being said, with all that's going on, no one is Washington should be wasting time on this, let Illinois deal with it. Burris will not be running in 2010, so both parties should be looking ahead.
Who got sucker in ? Not Burris; He was tainted from jump street and should have never been allowed to take the seat–you guys will never get him out . The people of Illinois will have to make that decesion.
I'm still waiting for the Congressional Black Caucus to speak up. They voted unanimously to seat him. What have they got to say for themselves? They played the race card, and got the joker! Hey Al Sharpton, speak up bro! Hey Jesse Jackson, where you at dawg?
I just puked again.....
It happens all the time anymore.....
The Politician Virus is becoming overwhelming.....
Is there an antibiotic for this?
Is there another story poking its head out here?
Senator Durbin commented today "during a congressional trip to Europe". Nancy Pelosi and 7 other members of the House are "traveling to Aviano Air Base in Italy to meet with our brave airmen and women."
So, having voted for the stimulus package designed to shore up the worst economy since the Great Depression, all the Democratic members of Congress decided it was a good time for them to take foreign junkets. Once more, our elected "leaders" don't see the need to lead by example.
What would happen if America was stupd and elected Palin/McCain in regards to her tax issues? She is such a reformer!!
I continue to be dumbfounded by these public figures who do this stuff, and think it'll never come to light. It wasn't specifically illegal to do what Burris did, but it really smells of back room deals, Chicago style. With Blago's activities under such scrutiny, did Burris really think this wouldn't come to light? Did he not think about how this would look? No wonder the Dems tried to block you. They probably knew what you were up to. Now, because of your arrogance, you have once again given Illinois a black eye. Wonderful. I am sick to death of this stuff. BOTH parties are pulling this nonsense. Is there an honest man in politics?
Wagon said: "Gee..another democrat that perjurs themselves. I'm totally and utterly shocked."
So are we Democrats. These are REPUBLICAN traits as seen over the last eight years. If you were living under a rock, and need proof, just look at the mess they created of our beloved America.
Leave now Burris! We are trying to rebuild our country, and restore the trust of the American people in our Government. Why give "fat boy" Rush, Fox idiots, and all of their nuts by association, peons the opportunity to do what they do best.
Even if you have done nothing wrong, and I sincerely believe that you have, you did not "come correct" to the position you were seeking. A true man of good character would not have allowed a bonafide crook to appoint him to "anything."
Why don't the Senate put their time to better use, than WITCH HUNT. Like why is Oil selling for less, yet the price at the pump is RISING. Investigate that.
Why does anyone act surprised? Politics has always been a quid pro quo business. Is anyone angry about the fact that 35% of all ambassadorships will be awarded by the President Obama (and all previous presidents) to big money donors or those who are politically well-connected – even if they have zero foreign policy experience? If you want to fix the system, you have to change the attitudes wholesale and demand competence in jobs that are elective or representative....
Another Chicago liar. At least he can say he is not (yet) a convicted felon. But that is a pathetically low standard, even for a Chicago Democrat. Unfortunately, Burris doesn't even have the integrity to resign with an iota of pride. He must love having his good name dragged through the mud. He has noone to blame but himself, accepting an appointment from Blago under those circumstances.
Make it quick and get this moron out of the Senate. He's a buffoon who was appointed by a buffoon.
I knew Burris was a goon when he was affiliated with Blago.
Why don't the Senate put their time to better use than go WITCH Hunting. Like, why is OIL selling for LESS, yet the price is RISING at the pump. Go Investigate that.
Anyone appointed by that piece of garbage Blagoevich should resign just for the fact, he is a Blago follower!!!
just kick him out already and get it over with
Does this surprise anyone?
Too bad Democrats let Burris in; it will be difficult to get rid of him, and even if Democrats kick him out they'll still be smeared by Republicans.
However, if more Republicans had supported the stimulus bill, Democrats probably wouldn't have caved on letting Burris in.
Republicans contribute NOTHING to our democracy.
I new Burris was afraud from the begining but the Republicans, the media and Congressional Black Caucus say he was good to go. It put the president, Pelosi, Durbin and Reid in a corner. He is greedy and selfish. Now lets see how this will be reported!
Democrat or Republican, they lie because they can. Why they are wasting time and money NOW? Burris will have no problem keeping his job because the sad reality is no one in politics is willing to do anything about it, next week it might be one of them.
Wake up American, the politicians try to keep us off guard with this partisan crap but the truth is they are just interested in keeping us from looking at anything but the real thruth.
Politicians do not care about the little people, never have, never will but they do need our tax dollars so they can have a great life at our expense.
If no money change hands who cares.After what weve endured for the last 8 years with the Bush/Republican rein, this is like not saying excuse me after a fart.
Word of praise for Danny Davis. In Nov 1987 Chicago Mayor Harold Washington died suddenly at his desk. His body was still warm when Fast Eddie Vrdolyak and his cronies began crafting the destruction of the Washington liberal coalition through a back room deal. When Alderman Danny Davis was questioned about his interest in becoming Mayor, he stated that out of RESPECT for the deceased Major he would refrain from politics during the time of mourning. He lost out. Eugene Sawyer, a black man, was chosen as a token interim mayor by the Vrdolyak group, just long enough to get Richie Daley elected. He has been Mayor since.
This is the same Danny Davis, now a Congressman, who refused solicitations by Blagojevich for the Obama Senate Seat. He refused out of RESPECT for the Senate. I think he should replace Roland Burris. At least he understands Respect.
Good....even though the only thing he is probably guilty of is being a desperate, self-promoting, opportunistic little twerp.
Burris is a sick joke. He should have the decency to step down. Our country have had enough of corrupt politicians. Enough Already!!!
@arithmetic is liberal. February 18th, 2009 5:21 pm ET
If arithmatic is liberal, then calculus is conservative.
Wow, I actually agree with what you said. I started reading the Ticker about 6 months before the election. My opinion of liberals had been that they have good intentions but are just naive. Now I too walk away every day after reading this site angry, thinking that they should all be line up against a wall an shot as traitors or locked up as insane. It seems that negative comments feed on each other. In light of your coherent sounding observations, when we come to shoot you, I'll ask that they just give you a flesh wound
The Democrats are going to clean this mess up – quickly!
Truth be told, if Burris was a Republican, the right wing slime machine would be out attacking the author of the original facts, calling them terrorists, un-American and anything else they could get away with.
I hope you right wing swifties are watching how the current government is vetting itself – if you messed up and are of questionable vintage for the administration, you are encouraged to step aside for the sake of the country.
Too bad somebody didn't vett Mike Brown of FEMA better – maybe the Katrina victims wouldn't have been just that at the hands of their own government – victims!!!!!!!!!
I am with Yuck. Each time I see this guy I want to puke. Its not his fault I suppose. He just makes me sick. Even before this happened. There is something about him that reminds me of an undertaker or a volcher or something.
well I guess he better correct his headstone
we have a lieing Senator from Illinois, Tax cheats in the Obama administtration and NOW, We have the Republican pick for VP not paying her taxes. I guess the problem is all those people in government.
Its time all Americans get together and vote all the old staus quo non-tax paying people out of office......
These guys are as bad as the athletes doping to win games, endorsements, etc. We need to have the highest expectations and standards for our leaders.....we need good examples (role models) for our children. We need to seek a better way, but seek it the right way.......there was a time in America when good conscience ruled the day. Good Conscience, where are you now?
Yeah, yeah Dave, Rush said that on his show yesterday.
Wash, rinse, REGURGITATE, repeat.
lies!lies! and more lies! it doesn't matter what party you belong to, politicians in genral are pathological liars. I repeat "in general"!
As long as our political system is so corrupt this will never change from either party.
It's time we end all corporate, union, and non-profit donations, and ban all lobbyists.
IF it looks like a lie, smells like a lie, sounds like a lie..........it is a LIE!
Burris was so thrilled that he might get Obama's Senate seat that he would have done anything.
What a disgrace!
Just another one of those Democratic Cronies, like all the REST ....who were found to be TAX EVADERS!
What a bunch of low life Obama has raked up for the White House!
The man needs to go.
HHmm, guess that it is getting harder to trust Democrats from Chicago, hope this is a lession to everyone.
“I ask you today to stop the rush to judgment,” he said. “You know the real Roland. I’ve done nothing wrong and I have absolutely nothing to hide.”
Then why did you hide it in the first place? If you've done nothing wrong, why didn't you demonstrate that?
Harry Reid was right – Burris should not have been accepted into the U.S. Senate. Black leaders exerted so much pressure that Harry Reid didn't prevail. But Reid was right. Look what's happened. And it wasn't about race. It was about the taint of Blagojevich. Anyway, the solution is for Burris to pledge not to run in 2010, so that he ends up being nothing than a 1-year caretaker. He's in his 70s, so that might be acceptance to him.
Could we and the Media give Burris a break already. Let's wait and see how he performs as a Senator.
p.s. The man is an attorney. Ya think he might be factual in his representations and it's just that some of us have mis-interpreted what he has said.
I think Burris should step aside. If he doesn't , the Senate should 'boot him out', faaast!!!!
SO WHAT!!! iF society hadn't become such over reachers and institgators the man probably wouldn't have been vague and more forthcoming. the man got thru get over it and move on the country's going to the dogs. And everybody I mean everybody stay busy worrying about the wrong thing. From the sounds of what Mr burris is saying now really sounds like normal Chicago political jargen.
I am a democrat so I want a democrat in that seat but this guy is an unwanted distraction. Go away Burris you are no help to your state or the USA. Game over go home.
You know I just figured out why the MaHaRushie and other right wingers have resorted to calling Obama the One. It’s because they have to build him up in their minds in order to accept that fact that they have just had their heads handed to them by some unknown black guy. Think about it. If he is not all of that then that means they had their pants taken down by some Chicago chump. But if he is the one then they can understand it. Little do they know that this is all part of the combined efforts of PUMA and Operation Chaos? The GOP actually has us right where they want us.
This guy is a criminal just like the rest of the crew from Illinois: Blago, Obama, Wright, Ayers.
america we need to clean house starting with this thug ....get out !!!!
The Democratic party is primarily made up of people like Burris,just about every day there is something in the news about ethics or breaking the law,and few if any Democrats even raise an eye brow,but if any thing is mentioned about Sarah Palin,all the Democrats become vary pious,and have issues ....what's with that ? Are you all hipocrites?
Will Burris get, or keep a Senate retirement out of this farce ?
LEAVE BURRIS ALONE. He didn't lie ... any more than Senator David Vitter!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
nobody should be appointed by Blagojevich! If burris chooses to resign / must resign, it is somewhat ironic that he was able to vote for perhaps the most important piece of legislation of the 21st century.
Let Congress investigate Representative Eric Cantor from Virginia. His wife's bank (New York Private Bank and Trust, a branch of Emigrant Bank) got 55 million dollars from the bailout that he voted "for" as opposed to the stimulus package that he voted "against." I guess his wife didn't get any money from the Obama stimulus package.
How does our AG have the GALL to call us "a nation of COWARDS on race" when we have a black President and a black A.G. ?
What we are, however, is a nation of COWARDS, and our news media is FULL of COWARDS, when it comes to being able to have the GUTS to scrutinize and criticize officials who happen to be black.
INTERESTINGLY,NO ONE in the media or anywhere else SEEMS to have a problem with mercilessly piling on public officials who happen to be WOMEN !!!!!
Can we please remove Burris from the senate and put Caroline Kennedy in . RE-election is in 2010. I am sick of hearing about him and we have enough problems to deal with that are far more serious.
This is what change looks like?
Kick his can out of the Senate immediately, Oh Please!
"There is something about this guy.., that I feel 'uncomfortable' about. Maybe, Campbell Brown is right.., watch your step with this guy." Mike in Montana
Oh look everyone, the circus is so wonderful this year. Everyone should take a look at the chicago tribune cover today. A picture of Bozo alongside Burris. How appropriate. The only thing missing is Obama. Had he done the right thing from the beginning, insist on a new election instead of preasuring others to sweep the controversy under the rug before his inaguration, none of this would have happened. And Reid is so feckless, it's pathetic.
Change stooges can believe in.
Breezy in Jackson TN, You seem to be blinded by your politics. Obama could have resolved all of this by backing the calls for a special election, but instead he didn't want to risk the seat going to a Republican.
The only change Obama has offered is a change from his campaign rhetoric, on all sides. He has not lived up to one thing he said he would, and he is disappointing both his critics and his left wing loons. Amazing that he can do both.
Does this sound familiar, "I’ve done nothing wrong and I have absolutely nothing to hide."??
BOTTOM LINE: HE USED HIS ATTORNEY DURING HIS APPOINTMENT PROCESS TO TIP-TOE AROUND QUESTIONS.
INTENTIONALLY NOT DISCLOSING THE FULL AND COMPLETE TRUTH IS THE MORAL EQUIVALENT OF LYING.
HE SHOULD RESIGN.
Honest politicians? That is an oxymoron.
Vic,
Yes, Burris broke laws. He lied under oath, repeatedly. I know you democrats don't have a problem with that, but I do.
Perhaps we should hear first from Chris Dodd and his special mortgage loan package.
Go after Burris but he should get in line, a very long line of Senate cheats.
If they was to get him out of office I would not feel sorry for him, All he had to do was keep his mouth close but what did he do open it, A close mouth is better than a running one
The ethics committee isn't going to recommend he be impeached, and Democratic leaders aren't going to let him resign. They'll give him a slap on the wrist and that's it. They will not risk anything to that slim margin of majority that can give them 60 votes on any bill. That's "politics" you can believe in. We'll leave the "change" for the idiots who thought things would be different.
I HAVE HAD ENOUGH OF THE "BORRIS" STORIES.
HE SOUNDS JUST LIKE BLAGO....CONTENTIOUS
& ARROGANT. TO HEAR IT FROM HIS MOUTH, HE
IS THE VIRGIN MARY.HE SOUNDS DIRTIER THEN BLAGO.
Bye Bye Roland ...
Any good reputation you may have had is gone ...
I guess all you can do now is wait for the pine box to put you out of your agony ...
I'm shocked! Shocked to find that a Chicago politician lied!
TIME TO TAKE THE GARBAGE OUT AGAIN.
MAN REEKS OF SLEAZE.
I do not feel sorry for him at all, He could have kept his mouth close and no one would have ever known about this, but what happen he got to running off at his mouth and no he will be back where he was at home wondering WHAT IF... A close mouth is better than a OPEN ONE
TIME FOR ANOTHER CLEANUP.
Considering the commotion over Burris' race being a factor in his being selected and had to be accepted, I wonder when someone will claim it as the reason he is now being attacked. There are two other racism acticles in CNN today. Holder is demanding honesty on race after honest discussion was lambasted for decades as white racism. Sharpton regularly draws attention to his perceived white racism but not black racism. Honest discussion of race is not possible until blacks accept their responsibility in correcting racism in America to at least the same degree demanded of other races. JUST STOP THE RACISM – NO EXCUSES.
He was appointed under fraud, are we suprised he is a fraud?
Burris could get into one of those "Dumbest Criminals" stories.
Burris gotta go!
NOW!
I'm a US Marine....and lately, I'm becoming more and more depressed that I gave my life and served my country as an infantryman for leaders like this and others that do not appreciate our great country Leaders who use deceit, and corruption to gain affluence and power...but its politics shouldn't be that much of a surprise but it still is.
Did Burris break any laws???
If not, then this is a wasted cause.
What about the "Racist Depiction of the President?",
NEW YORK – The New York Post is standing behind a cartoon that some have interpreted as comparing President Barack Obama to a violent chimpanzee gunned down by police. The cartoon in Wednesday's Post by Sean Delonas shows two police officers standing over the body of a bullet-riddled chimp. One of the officers says the other, "They'll have to find someone else to write the next stimulus bill.
Shouldn't we be more upset anout this....
Should have done this before he was seated. Reid looks like a fool – again.
i do hope all republicans go hell soon, please lord do me that favour, take these obstructionist.
HE IS A BIG CLOWN AND I DIDN'T LIKE HIM FROM THE START. HE thought Just becasue he was black the set belong to him. I am black and I was not for him. I seen right though this CLOWN!
If Mr. Burris really cared about the State of Illinois, he would resign. Each day he stays in office he brings only more ridicule to the state. Unfortunately, I believe Mr. Burris' need for being in a position of power is stronger than his feelings for the state, so he probably will not resign.
Mr. Burris needs to ask himself what he can give Illinois that nobody else can. If he answers that question truthfully, he will realize he is not irreplacable.
This whole saga is appalling. Democrats and republicans should come together and boot this guy out of the senate and rapidly hold an election to replace him. I'm a democrat, and i think this guy blights the reputation of the party, and is a sorry successor to the seat of the now-president.
The democrats won't keep him around solely to maintain their numbers in the senate; this guy is clearly tainted, increasingly seems untrustworthy, and is the antithesis of where the democrats are trying to go. Throw him out so we can be rid of the shadow of Blago!
CHANGE WE NEED! HA HA HA. SAME OLD POLITICS. THEY DON"T CARE HOW DISHONEST HE IS. ITS ANOTHER VOTE THEY CAN COUNT ON TO SUPPORT THE DEMOCRATS AGENDA.
Note to cartoonists out there: If a truck carrying a load of watermellons causes a 30 car pile-up on the Golden Gate Bridge in the next 24hrs, don't use that as part of your political cartoons attacking Burris.
BIRDS OF A FEATHER ALL FLOCK TOGETHER.
GET RID OF THIS OLD BIRD NOW, WHY WASTE ANY TAX PAYERS MONEY ON HIM. BURRIS LIED, AND LIED, AND LIED. STOP WASTING TIME ON HIM, HE DOESN'T HAVE THAT MUCH TIME LEFT. GET RID OF HIM NOW.
Yeah – what about the NY Post cartoon today? Its a heck of lot more important than "Chicago" politics.
He stinks like a dead fish...
The fact that he lied is the problem; not that he did or did not do any fund raising for the ex Gov.
Liars should not be in the senate and they should not lie to law makers under oath.
Time to go Burris. Even if you are innocent, you sound pathetic. So sad, so sad.
I wonder if the Senate ethics investigation will be as timely and thorough as the House's ethics investigation of Charlie Rangel? Face it, perjury means little to nothing to the Democrat Party...just ask Bill Clinton!
This will go down as one of the shortest senate terms ever. I predict Burris will be gone with 2 weeks.
Well, maybe Obama can stimulate the economy by hiring the American to take out the trash on Capitol Hill!
he looks like a total goof. not what we want our senators to look like and convey. he is a total loser and has never won a big race/election in his life. he makes other viable black candidates look bad while he parades himself as a trailblazer he is completely inept and should just go away
Can the Senate stop Bloomberg and the MTA from increasing fares ??
Not saying i told you so. but I smelled the rat when he was so anxious to be appointed by the ex-Gov. He was lying then and still at it, He's dirty get rid of him!
Throw Burris out-just another self-serving, untrustworthy politician.
Mike Syracuse NY, perhaps you should stick to taking pictures, you are incapable of indepedent thought.
Probable scenario:
Blago tested others for pay to play, no takers.
Burro said he would try, so he got the appointment. (He admitted he attempted to raise funds for Blago) Blago was running out of time too.
Burro did not tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth under oath. If he did, the appoinntment would come under a cloud, he may even lose it due to legality.
He came forward to amend his testimony after his seat was affirmed, and was worried that his conversations with the Blago team were recorded and would come out in the open.
We will know soon.
I must apologize to his Pension is secure, I should have said ALL Repugs are blithering idiots.
CNN is the Greatest !
We are all cowards as per our newly appointed crooked attorney General, We are a nation of cowards and then we have crooks like Burris, Blago, Barack, Reid, Pelosi and alike. Democratic party is full of them and surprisingly all Americans and the media is keeping silent about it. There is no news abou the meeting of Nanci pelosi with Pope. Nobody spoke about the lecture she got from the Pope. Media is keeping silent about it.