November 22, 2008 Choosing Obama's Senate replacement Play video

(NECN/ABC) - Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich has said that the process of selecting President-Elect Barack Obama's Senate replacement will be deliberate, but that one will be appointed before the end of 2008.

But with some pressing issues being decided in Congress, there has been a growing chorus of "why wait?".

Some are actively seeking the appointment. Others less so, but have said the would be honored if asked.

"This is one major point in our history, and it's important to understand we can't go backward," Rev. Walter Turner said.

Turner and a group of clergymen believe the Governor should appoint an African-American to the post. They have not endorsed any candidate, but said the person the Governor picks should be electable and carry on a progressive agenda.

Others are more worried about a lack of representation during this important time for our nation.

"We are in trouble and we can not afford to have just one senator taking a vote," politcal consultant Delmarie Cobb said.

Appointing an Obama replacement earlier rather than later would give that person a leg-up in seniority among the seven new faces coming to the U.S. Senate, as well. That can play itself out in who gets what committee assignments. The Governor's office is certainly aware of all that, but maintained that this will be a careful, deliberative process.

ABC's Paul Meincke reports.