Blagojevich makes controversial appointment to US Senate

ROD BLAGOJEVICH created a new distraction for his state by making an appointment to the US Senate even while he faces federal corruption charges for, in part, allegedly trying to sell the very seat he now is trying to fill.

Blagojevich tapped former state attorney general Roland Burris for the seat being vacated by President-elect Barack Obama, thrusting the 71-year-old political veteran back in the spotlight and immediately in a corner.

The Illinois secretary of state said he won’t certify the appointment of Burris, the lieutenant governor called the selection an insult, Senate Democrats won’t seat him and even the president-elect was cold to the nomination.