Let democracy guide Senate appointment

A Democratic Process is in Order As we celebrate President-elect Barack Obama's electoral victory, and glory in the democratic process that sends him to the White House, we must also be mindful of the very undemocratic process likely to unfold for selecting his successor in the U.S. Senate.

Because this seat will be up for election in less than two years, the Illinois Constitution calls for the Governor to appoint the replacement. At the same time we will see special elections to replace our representatives in the House, like Rahm Emanuel. This is a throwback to the time when State Legislatures chose the Senator and only the House was by popular vote. The times have changed and it is critical that the Governor allow some form of democratic feedback to the process. The new Senator will serve out President-elect Obama's term until 2010, and then can run in a statewide election.

By then, that "named person" will enjoy the incumbent's advantage and likely remain in the Senate for years to come. So, now is the time for our governor - though he is not legally bound to do so - to open his process to real input from the people of Illinois and do so in part to honor the wonderful example of faith in the electorate set by our next President, Barack Obama. We call on Governor Blagojevich to devise a more democratic process that seeks input from communities around the state, by holding open forums to allow the people of Illinois to weigh in on this most important position.

Just as the people of Illinois selected Barack Obama and Rod Blagojevich to be their leaders, so should they have appropriate input in choosing our next United States Senator.

Laurel Bault

Elgin

Progressive Democrats of America, Illinois