January 5, 2009 Burris: I am a solution to the problem Play video

(NECN: Chicago, IL) - U.S. Senate appointee Roland Burris is leaving for Washington for a showdown on Capitol Hill about whether he'll succeed President-elect Barack Obama in Congress.

Reporters caught up with the former state attorney general at the airport this afternoon.

"They cannot stop me from doing my Senatorial duties," said Burris. "The appointment is legal."

Embattled Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich appointed Burris last week despite Democratic leaders' pledge not to seat anyone named by the governor who is facing federal corruption charges. Burris has asked the Illinois Supreme Court to force White to sign the paperwork.

Paperwork naming Burris to the seat was received by the U.S. Senate secretary this morning, but was not formally accepted.

Burris says the appointment is legal and the governor had the authority to do it. He has threatened to sue Senate Democrats if they refuse to swear him in as the chamber's only black member.

"I am a solution to the problem," said Burris. "I can hit the ground running."