Officials say Burris won't be sworn in with others

WASHINGTON (AP) - Roland Burris is hoping to be sworn-in as a senator tomorrow, but several officials say that's not going to happen.

By: Associated Press | WNCT
Published: January 06, 2009

WASHINGTON (AP) - Roland Burris is hoping to be sworn-in as a senator tomorrow, but several officials say that's not going to happen.

Burris left Chicago today for Washington, describing himself as "a United States senator" following his appointment by Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich to the seat that was held by Barack Obama.

The officials say incomplete paperwork will stand in the way -- but the dispute is far deeper than that. Democrats were hoping that Blagojevich, who's facing corruption charges and is accused of trying to sell the Senate seat, would leave the seat vacant.

Burris hasn't been accused of any wrongdoing. But Senate Democrats are hoping he won't violate protocol by attempting to walk into the chamber uninvited.

As he left Chicago today, Burris -- who's black -- downplayed the issue of race, though his supporters have given it prominence.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid may be leaving the door open to a compromise. he's scheduled to meet privately with Burris on Wednesday.