U.S. Senator Roland W. Burris (D-IL) issued the following statement today on the Illinois Senate impeachment conviction of Governor Rod Blagojevich.
I stand behind the Illinois State Senate's decision today to remove Governor Blagojevich from office.
As I've repeatedly stated, the Governor must be held accountable for his actions to the legislature, in a court of law and to the people of the State of Illinois. Impeachment is about whether our State's best interests are being served having the Governor remain in office. Today's conviction speaks loud and clear that there are serious issues preventing him from fulfilling his responsibilities and I support putting new leadership in place. I expect others will join me in thanking the state Senate for fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities.
It is my hope that today will be remembered as a new beginning, more than as an end. I look forward to working with our new Governor Pat Quinn, as we focus our attention back to more pressing issues such as creating jobs, providing healthcare and building a foundation that will provide a better future for all Illinois people.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Blagojevich family during what must be a personally challenging time. And my thoughts and prayers remain with Illinois people who have endured such a long and unfortunate distraction during such a crucial time for our state and our nation.
