Release of Wiretapped Phone Call|Complicates Sen. Burris’ Position

CHICAGO (CN) - The Federal Court here released a transcript of a telephone call between Sen. Roland Burris and Robert Blagojevich, the brother of the impeached governor. In the Nov. 13, 2008 wiretapped conversation, Burris told Rob Blagojevich, "I know you're calling me telling me that you're gonna make me king of the world." Blagojevich then asked if there was anything that Burris could do for his brother.

The U.S. District Court released the transcript on Wednesday, after a granting a motion that sought its disclosure.

Rod Blagojevich was impeached and removed from office for trying to sell the U.S. Senate seat previously held by Barack Obama to the highest bidder. Burris, who Blagojevich appointed to the seat amid the controversy, told Rob Blagojevich that he was "very much interested in ... trying to replace Obama," and that he wanted to "help Rod" and "get a consideration to get that appointment."

Burris also stated in the discussion that he "could give [Rod] a check" or that his law firm could do something under the name of an associate who "is not looking for an appointment."

Burris expressed concern that he and Rod Blagojevich would "catch hell" if he did any sort of fund raising, because it would appear that he was purchasing the Senate seat. He concluded the conversation by saying that he would "personally do something" and to "tell Rod to keep [him] in mind for that seat."

Burris is being investigated by the Senate Select Committee on Ethics and the Sangamon County State's Attorney's Office over his involvement in the Blagojevich affairs.

Burris insisted on Wednesday that the transcript shows his innocence.

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