President-elect Barack Obama on Wednesday joined others calling for the governor of Illinois to resign, distancing himself further from the scandal over allegations that the governor schemed to barter away Obama's vacant Senate seat. The president-elect agrees ... that under the current circumstances it is difficult for the governor to effectively do his job and serve the people of Illinois,'' Obama spokesman Robert Gibbs said in response to questions from The Associated Press. Gov. Rod Blagojevich was arrested Tuesday, accused of seeking money or other favors to influence his choice in picking Obama's replacement. Blagojevich, who is out on bond and has denied wrongdoing, returned to work Wednesday. The governor has authority to appoint the replacement, but top Illinois lawmakers have said they are preparing to call the Legislature into session as early as next week to set a special election to choose Obama's successor. Asked whether Obama supports a special election, Gibbs said Obama believes the General Assembly should consider how to fill the Senate seat and put in place a process to select a new senator that will have the trust and confidence of the people of Illinois.'' Aides say Obama is refraining from stating what that solution should be. If Blagojevich resigns, Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn would become governor and have the right to appoint Obama's successor. That would avoid a special election, which can be costly, and speed up the appointment of Obama's replacement.