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Illinois Sat Feb 21 2009
Quinn Has the Right Idea On What To Do with Burris
I always did like this Quinn guy:
Quinn, who called Burris an "honorable" man, is now asking state lawmakers to set a special election, but a similar bill stalled in the legislature late last year and led to Burris' appointment by the impeached Gov. Rod Blagojevich.
Under Quinn's proposal, within 72 days a primary would occur -- and there would be another six weeks until a special general election is held. In meantime, Quinn would appoint a temporary senator, but to avoid picking a favorite, he said he would only appoint a caretaker, not someone who would run in the special election.
When asked if Burris could be that temporary senator, Quinn said: "I don't think so."
His plan doesn't come without caveats. For one, there's always the possibility that the Senate seat could switch parties and, for another, it could prove rather costly (the most common projection I've heard is around $50 million). But I say it's worth it as it's more democratic and less opportunistic than the present system.
Cheryl / February 21, 2009 11:49 AM
Elections are more democratic, but special elections are also very costly. Remember, Illinois is running a $9 billion deficit. Where would the money come from to fund a special election? Every decision comes with a price tag