Blagojevich still governor, still controls Senate pick

SPRINGFIELD - Rod Blagojevich remains governor of Illinois despite his arrest today for federal conspiracy charges alleging he tried to sell off a U.S. Senate appointment and pressure the Chicago Tribune to fire writers.

Legally, his arrest has no bearing on his role as the state's chief executive. That status changes only if he's convicted.

"He is the sitting governor of Illinois," said U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald at a news conference detailing the charges against the two-term Chicago Democrat. Fitzgerald declined to offer his opinions on whether Blagojevich should remove himself or be removed from office.

And that means Blagojevich still controls who gets named to fill president-elect Barack Obama's seat in the U.S. Senate, the very appointment he allegedly tried to profit from.

Jim Thompson, a former Republican governor and former U.S. attorney, said Blagojevich keeps that power unless lawmakers change the law.

And some members are scurrying to do just that.

Jack Franks, a Democratic state representative from McHenry County, said he's researching whether a temporary restraining order can be obtained regarding the Senate pick.

He's also putting together legislation that would prohibit governors who've been charged with federal crimes from making federal appointments.

Franks called on Blagojevich to resign from office and said Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn should be in charge picking the next U.S. senator from Illinois.

In the meantime, Blagojevich remains in control of the state's executive branch and gave no indication that would change anytime soon. His office issued a statement saying:

"Today's allegations do nothing to impact the services, duties or function of the State. Families will continue to receive healthcare, seniors and persons with disabilities the support and services they need, the hundreds of thousands of unemployed Illinoisans will still receive assistance. Our state will continue to ensure health, safety, and economic stability for the citizens of Illinois."

Lawmakers are not scheduled to be back at the Capitol until Jan. 12.