I think it’s a shame this has turned into such an unending circus and a p!ssing contest.

If the IL SoS does not actually have the discretion to exercise judgement on the orders of the sitting governor, she shouldn’t interject herself, ideally. But everyone at the top is blustering and posturing and grandstanding and making threats while the rest of the functionaries are just trying to figure out what they need to do to stay out of the sh!+storm.

I’m going to guess that the SoS signature is only supposed to certify that the document is a rightful order of the sitting governor, sort of like a notary. I bet they aren’t supposed to enjoy such discretion as is being implied here.

Lawmakers are trying to keep their own arses covered while giving Blagojevich some sort of due process, but Blagojevich is only using this interim period to cause trouble in hopes of cutting a deal. So the SoS is unlikely to face any flack for overstepping het statutory authority In fact, I would bet she has received explicit promises to that effect. Or maybe she has the statutory right to a certain amount of time in which to fulfill her responsibilities, and is dragging her feet within the bounds of the rules.