President-elect Barack Obama believes Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich should resign, his spokesman said Wednesday.
Robert Gibbs, who will be White House spokesman, told reporters that “under the current circumstances,” following Mr. Blagojevich’s arrest for attempting to sell an appointment to Mr. Obama’s vacated senate seat,” it is difficult for the governor to effectively do his job and serve the people of Illinois.”
Mr. Obama on Tuesday declined to comment, saying it was a “sad day” for the state even as the Lieutenant Governor and members of Congress said Mr. Blagojevich should resign.
Asked if Mr. Obama wants the governor to step aside, Mr. Gibbs said “Yes.”
“The President-elect agrees with Lt. Governor (Pat) Quinn and many others that under the current circumstances it is difficult for the Governor to effectively do his job and serve the people of Illinois,” he said.
“The President-elect believes that the general assembly should consider the issue and put in place a process to select a new senator that will have the trust and confidence of the people of Illinois,” he said.
Related stories:
• Blagojevich returns to work day after arrest
• Illinois Governor charged with bribery
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