The Illinois Supreme Court on Wednesday denied an effort to remove Gov. Rod Blagojevich, rejecting what could have been the quickest way to force the Democrat from office.

Blagojevich’s lawyer, meanwhile, said the governor would not appoint someone to fill Barack Obama’s vacant U.S. Senate seat, potentially answering one of the key questions surrounding the scandal.

The state court’s ruling came as Genson was challenging the strength of the corruption case against Blagojevich before a panel of lawmakers considering whether to recommend impeachment.

Genson said the wiretaps that ensnared his client amounted to all talk and no action.

“It’s just people jabbering,” Genson told the House panel.