Roland Burris and Harry Reid

Roland Burris is creating real havoc for US Senate Democrats.  Harry Reid wanted to hoist the banner of "ethical reform" for his Democratic Party.  Now his newest member has the dark cloud of perjury hanging over his appointment. 

Harry can call for Burris to resign, but there's little else he can do.  Reid's conundrum is that he desperately needs Burris' vote for some key legislation.  Hence, push Burris too far, and Reid risks losing what little loyalty he may have from Burris, at this point. 

From Burris' perspective, he must now realize his chance for reelection to the seat is essentially nil.  As a result, he's a lame duck.  I've gotten word that Burris may be breaking from the Democratic party line on a few key issues.  He's decided to vote his conscience.  Of course, the last thing that Harry Reid wants is a Senator who's voting his conscience.

Special Election

    A special election in Illinois, should Burris resign, offers great prospects for Illinois Republicans and it has nothing to do with winning the Senate seat.  What I mean, is that the leading state Republicans are hesitant to consider a run for the Governor's seat in 2010, because they fear losing that race, along with their own, safe, political office. 
    A 90-day Special Election allows the Republican Party to trot out some of their credible candidates without the risk of losing their existing seat.  Even if the Republican nominee can't win the Senate Seat, the race offers great state-wide visibility that sets them up for a Governor's race in 2010.  

    So, Republicans are praying for a special election for Burris' seat.  Even if they lose that race, it increases their chances in 2010.