By DANIEL FRIEDMAN, CongressDaily
Top Senate Democrats appear poised to seat Roland Burris as Illinois' junior senator if the state's Supreme Court decides in coming days to force the Illinois secretary of State to certify Burris' appointment. "The court decision is very important before we move to the next step," Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said at a news conference today.
Following a meeting with Burris, Reid and Majority Whip Richard Durbin said they would also monitor Burris' testimony Thursday before an Illinois legislative panel that is considering the impeachment of Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich (D), who was arrested last month on charges he tried to sell the appointment to President-elect Obama's former seat.
Reid indicated that if Burris obtains certification and avoids missteps in the hearing, the Senate would refer to his appointment to the Senate Rules Committee for review. He did not say what specifically the panel would examine. But it appears the review would be a formality, and the senators left little doubt they are backing off their initial refusal to seat Burris or anyone else appointed by Blagojevich.
Senate Democrats are under pressure from members of the Congressional Black Caucus eager to see Burris, who was Illinois' first black attorney general and comptroller, replace Obama, who was the only black Senate member. Durbin said Burris assured the senators at the outset of their meeting "that this controversy has nothing to do with... race." Durbin and Reid praised Burris' qualifications and demeanor. Reid called Burris "candid and forthright" and an "extremely nice man." Burris, who has planned a press conference later today, did not address reporters. Obama earlier today appeared ready to accept the senators' decision.
Updated at 12:43 p.m. on Jan. 7.
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