Rod Blagojevich once represented Illinois 5th Congressional District, before being elected governor six years ago. In a sign of just how much the disgraced former governor has been an issue in the race to replace Rahm Emanuel, there's this new statement from Democratic candidate Mike Quigley, a Cook County Commissioner, calling for Sen. Roland Burris to resign immediately.

From his statement:

"Roland Burris' failure to be honest and upfront with the people of Illinois should disqualify him from service in the United States Senate.

"He should resign, immediately.

"The Illinois legislature should work with Governor Quinn to pass legislation immediately setting up a special election empowering the people of Illinois to have a voice in this matter and allowing us all to finally turn the page on this sad chapter in Illinois' politics."

Tonight, the Senate Ethics Committee opened a preliminary hearing to look at Burris' ever-evolving statements about his interaction with Blagojevich advisers before the Senate appointment. Illinois Republicans have been calling for his resignation all week, but Quigley is one of the first Democrats to do so. His fellow candidates in the crowded field will likely follow suit now, though.

Quigley also today picked up the Chicago Tribune endorsement. Quigley, State Rep. Sara Feigenholtz and John Fritchey have split the top endorsements and raised the most money. The primary is March 3.