Rush wants 'transparent' process in Obama appointment

U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush is calling for a "transparent appointment process" for President-elect Barack Obama's vacant Senate seat that doesn't involve Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

The Chicago Democrat says he won't push for a special election because it'll be an "undue burden of millions" on the state budget and only well-funded candidates with "high name recognition would be viable candidates."

Rush outlined the details in a Thursday letter sent to Senate President Emil Jones and House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Rush says he's saddened by this week's criminal complaint alleging Blagojevich tried to sell Obama's Senate seat to the highest bidder.

Rush says he's consulting with Illinois legal experts to find an alternative way to appoint Obama's replacement.