SPRINGFIELD, IL…Today the Illinois Senate removed Democrat Governor Rod Blagojevich from office based on a long list of impeachable offenses including abuse of power and federal corruption charges, most notably the Governor’s attempt to sell the U.S. Senate seat vacated by President-Elect Barack Obama.

State Representative Ed Sullivan (R-Mundelein) applauded the Senate for their decision to remove Democrat Governor Rod Blagojevich from office:

“The evidence against Governor Blagojevich was overwhelming,” said Rep. Sullivan. “The Senate heard a testimony from FBI agent John Cain regarding the criminal affidavit as well as the positive voice identification of Governor Blagojevich on recorded phone calls. The Senate also listened to tape recordings of the Governor discussing a pay-to-play scheme involving a horse racing law in exchange for a campaign contribution.”

“The Governor had a chance to defend himself during the Senate trial and an ample opportunity to call specific witnesses, but instead of participating in this fair legislative process, he launched a nationwide media tour claiming his innocence,” said Sullivan. “Although the Governor’s charades are embarrassing, it did allow the Senate to move quickly on removal.”

“Now that Rod Blagojevich has been removed from office, the people of Illinois deserve our full attention to the problems facing our state,” said Sullivan. “Our state will be able to return its focus to important issues like a troubled economy, debt, and the need for a comprehensive capital plan.”