Reid Backs Off, Leaves Burris to Court

A far cry from the political shunning of just days ago, Majority Leader Harry Reid ushered would-be senator Roland Burris into his office this afternoon, and emerged saying that an Illinois court decision could go a long way toward seating the Blagojevich appointee. “We don't have a problem with him as an individual,” said Reid. But a court decision on Burris' lack of signature from his secretary of state is vital, as “everyone has to present certification by the secretary of state.”

Reid and Durbin both heaped praise on Burris as a person, nor were they alone. Burris’ seating is a “Senate matter,” Barack Obama said at a press conference. “But I know Roland Burris. He's from my home state. I think he's a fine public servant.” Obama said he’d be happy to work with Burris if he was seated. (More Roland Burris stories.)