Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan told the state’s legislature that she sees no constitutional problem with the Illinois General Assembly passing legislation to allow a special election for a U.S. Senator to replace the scandal-embroiled Senator Roland Burris.
Burris’ appointment by former Governor Rod Blogojevich has been filled with controversy. Burris continues to say he did nothing improper to receive his appointment, but some consider Burris’ statements inconsistent regarding his contact with the former governor.
“The General Assembly possesses inherent authority, derived directly from the federal constitution, to specify the timing and manner of elections to fill a U.S. senate vacancy,” said Madigan, specifically citing the 17th Amendment.