Jesse White

Jesse White is the Illinois Secretary of State. He previously served 16 years in the Illinois General Assembly. White also has a background in the Chicago public school system and as a professional baseball player.Official Site: Biography of Jesse White Secretary of State

In December 2008, White has said he will reject any paperwork filed by state governor Rod Blagojevich to fill the seat in the U.S. Senate that became open when President-Elect Barack Obama resigned. Blagojevich, who has been charged with corruption, announced his choice to the Senate seat, Roland Burris, on December 30, 2008.USA Today: Blagojevich defies critics, names Burris to fill Senate seat (December 30, 2008)

Certification of Roland Burris

On January 9, 2009, White signed a document stating that Roland Burris' appointment document was "true and accurate." However, White continued to refuse to sign the official appointment papers, stating that he "could not and will not in good conscience sign my name to any appointment made by Governor Rod Blagojevich." Just days before, the Illinois Supreme Court ruled that White's signature on the appointment papers was not necessary to complete Burris' appointment, although the Senate requires the Secretary of State's approval for all new Senators. After the ruling, Burris reported that he was confident he had met all requirements and expected to be validated and seated as a Senator.Politico: Burris gets OK from Illinois sec. of state (January 10, 2008)

Jesse White on Illinois Senate Seat

The governor of Illinois, Rod Blagojevich, has been charged with corruption and is under investigation. Blagojevich has the authority to appoint the U.S. Senate seat that became available when President-elect Barack Obama resigned. Blagojevich is accused of attempting to "sell" the Senate seat. On December 30, 2008, Blagojevich announced he had selected Roland Burris to take over the seat. White said he will reject any paperwork Blagojevich files regarding his choice for the Senate, due to the corruption allegations.USA Today: Blagojevich defies critics, names Burris to fill Senate seat (December 30, 2008)