From the state that gave you “the audacity of hope” now comes the audacity of Blagojevich. The Chicago Tribune reports:

In a display of political bravado, disgraced Gov. Rod Blagojevich today appointed former Illinois Atty. Gen. Roland Burris to the U.S. Senate, challenging national Democratic leaders to reject the appointment of an African-American to the seat that propelled Barack Obama to the White House.

What’s really funny is Bobby Rush. “Democratic U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush of Chicago […] underscored the role of race in the governor’s decision by using racially charged terms to defend the appointment.” Yet it’s Secretary of State Jesse White (a black man) who won’t certify the appointment, and President-elect Barack Obama (a black man) who is also repudiating the appointment. I suppose Rush would have us believe they’re racist, too.

Obama explained the situation perfectly in his statement:

“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. I agree with their decision, and it is extremely disappointing that Governor Blagojevich has chosen to ignore it. I believe the best resolution would be for the Governor to resign his office and allow a lawful and appropriate process of succession to take place. While Governor Blagojevich is entitled to his day in court, the people of Illinois are entitled to a functioning government and major decisions free of taint and controversy.”