By AP/KWMU
Chicago – Aides at U.S. Senator Roland Burris' first fundraiser since he was appointed by former Gov. Rod Blagojevich wore new blue buttons that said "Run Roland Run." But Burris told reporters that money raised Sunday in Chicago will go toward $111,000 in debt accumulated while setting up his Senate office, not a campaign to keep his seat in next year's election.
The Illinois Democrat said he hasn't yet decided whether to run. Burris said he isn't bothered by the $1.1 million raised by Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, who has said he's "exploring" a run next year for U.S. Senate.
Burris is being investigated by the Senate Ethics Committee and the Sangamon County state's attorney for seemingly contradictory statements about his appointment by Blagojevich.