It would behoove a Republican to refuse the appointment anyway. ;)
It will take the General Assembly to pass a law to take away his appointment power. Unless it’s in the state constitution.
A swift impeachment is really what should happen.
I checked the state constitution, and I didn’t see any mention of how a U.S. senator should be replaced.
But if Blago is outside the state, wouldn’t Quinn be acting Gov.? That would allow Quinn to appoint someone to the seat. I’m sure the feds could find some excuse to transport Blago to Gary, IN for a day.