The story

The U.S. Senate is considered the most exclusive legislative body in the country, and members of its majority say they will not accept Roland Burris -- tapped by embattled Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich to fill a vacant seat -- into their own.

Conflicting passages in the Constitution complicate a legal and political fight, with the Supreme Court as the possible final word. A 1969 high court ruling could ultimately decide who fills the seat recently vacated by the president-elect. Democrats in the Senate have twice this week said they have the authority to refuse to accept "anyone appointed by Gov. Blagojevich" to fill the seat once held by Obama.

Blagojevich was arrested December 9, accused by federal authorities of corruption by allegedly trying to sell Obama's seat for personal, political and financial gain. Blagojevich, a Democrat, has denied the charges, and this week named Burris, a former Illinois attorney general, to the post. Read full article »

All About Rod Blagojevich • Illinois • Roland Burris • U.S. Senate