Illinois lawmakers take step to oust governor

Illinois lawmakers took the first step toward removing the state's disgraced governor from office, as President-elect Barack Obama said an internal investigation shows his staff had no involvement in the scandal.

Chicago attorney Ed Genson, a tough, street-smart lawyer, confirmed he would represent Blagojevich. He has said he would handle both the criminal and possible impeachment cases against the governor.

Obama said a review by his own lawyer shows he had no direct contact with the governor about the appointment of a replacement for his Senate seat, and transition aides "did nothing inappropriate."