Obama: Illinois Ready To Move Forward After Blagojevich

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - President Barack Obama says Illinois is ready to move forward now that Rod Blagojevich has been removed as governor.

In an interview with The State Journal-Register, Obama said Thursday he was distressed by the nature of the allegations made against Blagojevich. But he said Illinois is now ready to move forward.

Obama expressed confidence in Gov. Pat Quinn, who took office after the state Senate convicted Blagojevich of charges made in a bill of impeachment. The president called Quinn a relentless advocate for working families, adding that he's smart, dedicated and in politics for the right reasons.

Obama, who will be spending the weekend at his Chicago home, said it's a great honor being in the White House. But he said Chicago is still home, adding that he and his family were looking forward to seeing their friends.

Comments

[ChooseLaugh]

Moving forward? "Untill they hit that Burris speed bump"

[leonel]

Obama needs to stop bombing Pakistan villagers with missiles because it violates international laws. The Pakistan government has told him to stop. How can Bush and Cheney be investigated for war crimes when the investigators are doing the same?

[ibsteve2u]

On the bright side, Blago will make an amusing anecdote in Illinois history books in 50 or so years. I remember high school history well enough to be sure that future students will appreciate the levity.