Wandtv.com, NewsCenter17, StormCenter17, Central Illinois News-Burris speaks out, ignores calls to resign
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U.S. Senator Roland Burris spoke to supporters Sunday, but did not mention calls for him to resign the seat he recently took over.
Burris told hundreds of supporters at a black church on Chicago's South Side that he's been working hard to represent them in Washington. He spoke at Sunday evening services at New Covenant Baptist Church. Inside of addressing his critics, he highlighted his accomplishments. He mentioned voting for President Barack Obama's economic stimulus bill and said he proposed legislation to recognize the slaves who built the Capitol. He said the support and prayers from parishioners are keeping him going.
Before the service, the church's pastor said Burris is the right man for his job and shouldn't resign. The Reverand Stephen Thurston said the attacks on Burris have taken an ugly turn. U.S. Representative Bobby Rush also addressed reporters and said Burris is his friend and that his friends don't perjure themselves.
Meanwhile, also on Sunday, Governor Pat Quinn reiterated his call for Burris to resign so residents can vote in a special election to replace him.
Burris has ignored repeated calls to resign amid accusations he lied to a House committee investigating the impeachment of disgraced former Governor Rod Blagojevich.
