SPRINGFIELD - Not even an international peacemaker could break through the quarreling and dissension at the top levels of Illinois government.

New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, who served as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, was the featured speaker at a gathering of Illinois Democrats in Springfield Wednesday.

While Richardson, a one-time presidential candidate, talked of unifying the party behind U.S. Sen. Barack Obama, top state Democrats continued the squabbling that has brought gridlock and finger-pointing to state government.

State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, a Democrat, called the infighting between Gov. Rod Blagojevich and House Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, "embarrassing."

"It's horrible for the State of Illinois," Giannoulias said. "We've got a complete lack of leadership in Illinois."

State Comptroller Dan Hynes, also a Democrat with his eye on a 2010 gubernatorial bid, said the "power clash" is impeding progress on a number of key party issues, including a statewide construction plan.

"We're here to help people," Hynes said to the applause of hundreds of party faithful gathered for the Democratic County Chairmen's Association.

Some top Democrats attempted to steer clear of the storyline that has dominated state government in recent years.

"Let's come together, put aside our differences," Blagojevich said.

"I want to focus on the positive," added Attorney General Lisa Madigan, the speaker's daughter.

The speaker said the day was dedicated to kicking off the 2008 campaign season, with an eye on electing Obama president in November.

"Our goal is to bring Democrats together. That's always my goal. Division just helps the opposition," said Speaker Madigan.

Richardson, meanwhile, deflected questions about the discord in Illinois, saying the Democratic Party is always in a state of "controlled tension."

"We've got a lot of strong personalities," Richardson said. "Sometimes there's a little rivalry, a little debate, and that's good."

Richardson said he doesn't believe the dissension in Illinois will rub off on Obama as he travels the country in search of votes.

"I see no effects of maybe some divisions within the party," Richardson said.

Speaker Madigan agreed.

"I think the people of America are going to decide about Barack Obama and McCain without regard to the Illinois Democratic Party," Madigan said.