Illinois Gov. Blagojevich, who was arrested last month on corruption charges, named one of Illinois' most well-known black political figures to fill President-elect Barack Obama's vacant U.S. Senate seat. The appointment of former State Attorney General Roland Burris drew rebukes from Senate Democratic leaders in Washington, who vowed to stop Burris from being seated. President-elect Obama also weighed in against the move. "Roland Burris is a good man and a fine public servant, but the Senate Democrats made it clear weeks ago that they cannot accept an appointment made by a governor who is accused of selling this very Senate seat," Mr. Obama said in a statement. "The best resolution would be for the governor to resign his office and allow a lawful and appropriate process of succession." But Gov. Blagojevich said he was "required to make this appointment." "If I don't make this appointment, then the people of Illinois will be deprived of their appropriate voice and vote in the United States Senate." In this interview, Burris explains why he should be Barack Obama's replacement. Quotes "The governor is the governor. He has a constitutional and legal authority to appoint a replacement for the United States Senate when there is a vacancy. And for them to summarily say that they aren't going to seat that person does not withstand all of the precedents and the law." - Former Illinois Attorney General Roland Burris, selected to fill President-elect Obama's vacant Senate seat "If those allegations are proven to be true against the governor, then, you know, he will be in serious trouble. That in no way impacts me. There's no such thing as a tainted appointment by a chief executive who has the constitutional authority." - Roland Burris Warm Up Questions 1. What happened to the Senate seat that was occupied by Barack Obama before he was elected president? 2. Are all politicians elected? When might a senator be appointed rather than elected? Discussion Questions 1. Do you think Roland Burris should be an Illinois senator? Why or why not? 2. How would you feel if you were appointed by a governor who is charged with trying to sell the senate seat you are supposed to take over? Would you accept it? 3. Do you think Burris could be an effective senator? Why or why not? 4. What do you think of Barack Obama's comments in this instance? Additional Resources Transcript of this report