Jesse White Tumbles

Notice how eagerly he backpedals when faced with the horrific prospect of being the last one with his integrity intact...

Reid and Durbin said Burris' certificate, since it lacks White's signature, violates a Senate rule that has been in place since the 19th century.

"This has been a rule in the United States Senate since 1884," Durbin said. "We have never, ever (ever, ever, ever... ed.) waived this rule for any election or appointment.

"Everyone has to present a certificate, signed by the governor, cosigned by the secretary of state. ... So it's an important rule and one not easily challenged or changed," said Durbin, who noted that he has known Burris for decades.

White, however, disputed the claim that his signature was needed on Burris' certificate, saying Wednesday that he was the "fall guy" for politicians who oppose Burris.

"They could have seated him without my signature," White told WGN Radio. "It carries a lot of weight, but my signature is mostly ceremonial rather than being a point of law."

In other words, my opposition was strictly symbolic, not meant to be taken seriously, nothing to see here (move along), hey where are you guys going, don't leave me standing here, etc. etc.