DONGOLA - State Sen. Gary Forby, D-Benton, told students at Dongola High School on Tuesday that state government has come to a standstill and will remain so until an impeachment procedure filed against Gov. Rod Blagojevich is complete.

"We are at a standstill right now until we get this behind us," Forby told students gathered in the school gymnasium.

Afterwards, Forby declined to speak about his personal views regarding federal corruption charges against the embattled governor, saying his role as a state senator in the forthcoming impeachment hearings likens him to a juror.

"All 59 state senators will be the jury," Forby said, noting hearings within the state Senate could begin later this month if a House impeachment panel recommends removing the governor, a recommendation that will necessitate full House approval before reaching the Senate.

The governor has been charged with a scheme to sell or trade the U.S. Senate seat left vacant by Barack Obama's election to the presidency.

Blagojevich has been charged also with plotting to use his power as governor to squeeze campaign contributions.

Ty Gilliland, a junior at Dongola High, said after Forby's address that the impeachment procedure is fair and nonbiased.

"If he (the governor) messes up, then it affects everyone in the state of Illinois. I think it's fair," Gilliland said.

Forby told students also that when the Legislature convenes this session, state lawmakers will need to find revenue sources to fund state programs.

"The state of Illinois is broke if we don't come up with revenue. It's going to get worse," Forby said.

Jeff Buhnerkempe, who teaches civics at Dongola High, said school officials invited Forby to address students so the students could see and hear how politics works.

scott.fitzgerald@thesouthern.com / 351-5076