What's next? Blago resigns? He's declared unfit by the Illinois Supreme Court? He's impeached?

None of those things appear to be likely. The most likely next step is for the Illinois General Assembly to pass legislation taking the authority to appoint a new Senator away from the Governor in favor of a special election.

Background: The idea is to take away Blagojevich's sole authority to fill the U.S. Senate seat left vacant by President-elect Barack Obama. Lawmakers would pass legislation next week that is backed by Illinois House Speaker and Senate President.

How it would work: A statewide primary election followed quickly by a general election is the likely option.

What's new: The plan is expected to be approved by Tuesday. "We're still moving forward," said a spokeswoman for the Senate President. "We're going to come in and get this bill passed."

Lingering questions: Blagojevich still would have the power to decide the bill's fate. He could veto it and lawmakers could try to override. He could sign it. Or, if he ignores it for 60 days, it would become law. Also, would it stand up in court? If someone sues, the Senate seat could be left in doubt for months while the litigation of the legality of the new law is decided. During that time, Illinois would only be represented by one Senator. It's likely that the defined "majority" in Senate votes would be 50 votes, but that would require a modification of Senate rules. That situation vitually eliminates any role for the Vice President in breaking tie votes in the Senate.