IL Sen. Dick Durbin says race not key for Obama Senate seat vacancy

[ClarkUSA]

From the Chicago Tribune, here's a story about what the senior senator from Illinois (who is also a close friend and confidante) has to say about filling Obama's Senate seat:

CHICAGO, Nov. 15 (UPI) -- U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., says race should not be the main qualifier for whoever succeeds President-elect Barack Obama in the Senate.

The senior senator from Illinois said the "most talented person" should be chosen to replace Obama despite suggestions a person of the same race should assume the black junior senator's seat, the Chicago Tribune said Saturday.

"I understand there's a strong sentiment in the African-American community in this state that the replacement of the only African-American in the Senate be another African-American, and we have a number of talented people who could certainly fill that role," Durbin said Friday. "If it were my decision to make, it wouldn't be a litmus test, it wouldn't be the only consideration. I would look for the most talented person who could serve this state and who would be likely … elected two years from now."

The Tribune said Durbin, whose comments were made after the senator ate lunch with the president-elect, is expected to meet with the governor sometime next week.

[Blarch]

1. So let it be written.

[mollymongold]

2. I like the woman who Obama celebrated Memorial day with...

[Blarch]

3. Tammy Duckworth. Sound good.

[MiniMe]

4. I agree with him 100%