WUIS News - Special Blagojevich Coverage

Former Gov. Rod Blagojevich says he is saddened and hurt but not surprised by his indictment by federal prosecutors in an alleged wide-ranging corruption scheme. He says he now will fight in the courts to clear his name. Federal prosecutors have charged the former governor with a host of corrupt acts, including trying to get money for his wife, Patti. The indictment announced Thursday charges Blagojevich and his allies arranged job interviews for Patti Blagojevich with financial institutions doing business with the state. When no jobs materialized, the governor allegedly said he didn't want the companies to get any more state business. Prosecutors also accuse Blagojevich and members of his inner circle with scheming to line their pockets with millions of dollars in ill-gotten gains, which they planned to split after the governor left office. Springfield businessman William Cellini is among those indicted. Cellini's attorney, Dan Webb, says his client had no connection to Blagojevich and will ask for a separate trial.

Rod Blagojevich began his political career in the Illinois House. But his relationship with the chamber soured when he became Governor. Amanda Vinicky spoke with some of the lawmakers who worked with Blagojevich in both capacities ... and has this report on their reactions to his indictment...

Blagojevich Voted Out of Office

Rod Blagojevich is no longer the Governor of Illinois. The Illinois Senate Thursday voted unanimously to end his six years in office. WUIS's Amanda Vinicky reports...

Governor Pat Quinn

Illinois has a new Governor. Pat Quinn took the oath of office at the state capitol moments after former Governor Rod Blagojevich was convicted in his impeachment trial. After years of fighting the system... Quinn now finds himself in charge of it. WUIS's Sean Crawford reports...

Governor Pat Quinn Biography

NAME: Patrick Quinn. AGE-BIRTH DATE: 60; Dec. 16, 1948. HOME: Chicago FAMILY: Divorced, two children EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree from Georgetown University; law degree from Northwestern University. EXPERIENCE: Became governor Jan. 29, 2009, after the Illinois Senate voted to remove his predecessor, Rod Blagojevich. Elected lieutenant governor in 2002 and 2006. State treasurer from 1991 to 1995. Served on the Cook County Board of (property tax) Appeals. Helped create the consumer watchdog group Citizens Utility Board and led other petition drives and consumer movements. QUOTE: ``Whatever position I had, whether it would be governor or some other position, if you can organize causes, I like doing that. I think that's really actually more my interest in life than anything.'' (Associated Press)

KEY PLAYERS:

ROD BLAGOJEVICH
First elected governor in 2002, Blagojevich was arrested Dec. 9 on federal charges of scheming to sell President Barack Obama's vacant U.S. Senate seat for high paying jobs or campaign contributions.
The Illinois House impeached him on charges that he abused his executive power. On Thursday, the Senate convicted him, removing him from office, and barred him from ever holding public office. He denies any wrongdoing.

DAVID ELLIS
Ellis was the House-appointed prosecutor in the impeachment trial and presented the evidence against Blagojevich. He had been the lead lawyer for the House committee that investigated the governor's conduct and wound up recommending impeachment.
Ellis also is chief counsel to House Speaker Michael Madigan, Blagojevich's chief rival. Madigan and Blagojevich, fellow Democrats, have locked heads over the last two years in a dispute that has crippled the General Assembly.

THOMAS FITZGERALD
As Chief Justice of the Illinois Supreme Court, Fitzgerald presided over the impeachment trial. His power was limited, however, because senators could have overridden his rulings throughout the trial. Fitzgerald was first elected to the Supreme Court in 2000 and was first elected to the bench in 1976.
While a Supreme Court judge, Fitzgerald had to hold the trial to a lower level of standards than in a regular trial because the impeachment was a political process.

EDWARD GENSON
Best known for successfully representing R. Kelly against child pornography charges, Genson was Blagojevich's lead criminal attorney. He represented Blagojevich during House impeachment hearings and said he would not participate in the Senate trial, claiming its rules are unfair to the governor. Then said he was not involved in Blagojevich's strategy on impeachment and three days before the impeachment trial, Genson said he was withdrawing from Blagojevich's case entirely.

SAMUEL E. ADAM
Adam, another Blagojevich attorney, also took part in the House impeachment hearings but boycotted the Senate trial. He was still involved in advising the governor on an impeachment strategy.
Blagojevich used Adam to approach Roland Burris about whether the former Illinois attorney general would agree to replace Obama in the U.S. Senate.

JOHN CULLERTON
The newly elected Senate president replaced Emil Jones, who had been Blagojevich's closest ally. He took a firm line on the impeachment trial when he oversaw rules that restrict the governor's defense and set a brisk trial schedule.
Cullerton, a Chicago Democrat, lives down the street from Blagojevich but has a better relationship with House Speaker Madigan.

PATRICK QUINN
Quinn became Illinois' 41st governor with Blagojevich's Senate conviction. He had been the lieutenant governor and Blagojevich's running mate in two elections.
Quinn has a long history as a political gadfly and outsider, but largely played the loyal soldier during his first term under Blagojevich. During the second term, however, he has publicly criticized Blagojevich, who stopped speaking to Quinn or assigning him any duties.

DANIEL CAIN
An FBI agent since 1986, Cain signed the federal complaint that led to Blagojevich's arrest. He testified in the trial that he accurately quoted Blagojevich in the affidavit that accompanied the charges. While he was testifying, Ellis displayed the most damning quote on a poster board. Cain is a University of Illinois graduate, who said he worked on evidence in the Oklahoma City bombing and on the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

SEN. RICKEY HENDON
He is the lone senator who somewhat spoke up for Blagojevich in his impeachment trial. Hendon, a fellow Chicago Democrat, maintained that his questioning of the trial process was part of his due diligence and that no one asked him to stand up for the governor. He filed a motion Thursday that said the House should not have lumped all 13 accusations into one all-or-nothing article of impeachment, but that it should have been divided by category. Judge Fitzgerald denied the motion.

The Illinois House's article of impeachment against Rod Blagojevich accused him of:
1) plotting to obtain a personal benefit in exchange for his appointment to fill the vacant seat in the United States Senate.
2) plotting to award state financial assistance to the Tribune Co. only if members of the Chicago Tribune editorial board were fired.
3) plotting to sign legislation related to the horse-racing industry in exchange for campaign contributions.
4) plotting to award a tollway contract and expand a tollway project in exchange for campaign contributions.
5) plotting to release pediatric care reimbursements to Illinois doctors and hospitals in exchange for campaign contributions.
6) plotting to appoint someone to the Illinois Finance Authority in exchange for campaign contributions.
7) plotting to award state contracts in exchange for campaign contributions.
8) plotting to award permits and authorizations in exchange for campaign contributions.
9) refusing to recognize the authority of a legislative committee, disregarding the doctrine of separation of powers and violating the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act by unilaterally expanding a state program.
10) improperly procuring foreign flu vaccine that could not be brought into the United States.
11) creating the I-SaveRx program that allowed Illinoisans to buy foreign medication that may not comply with state pharmacy and drug laws.
12) setting up the ``Agency Efficiency Initiative,'' in which one state agency billed other agencies for poorly documented or nonexistent savings, circumventing the appropriations process.
13) violating state and federal law regarding the hiring and firing of government employees. (Associated Press)

Blagojevich Voted Out of Office

Illinois lawmakers have voted to remove Rod Blagojevich from office. With a vote of 59-0, Senators ended Blagojevich's second term as Illinois Governor. Pat Quinn, who has been serving as Lt. Governor, has assumed the role of Governor.

Complete Audio of Blagojevich Statement

In his closing argument, Governor Rod Blagojevich continued to blast the rules of the impeachment trial, saying he didn't have a fair chance to respond to the federal charges used as evidence in the senate...

The Illinois State Senate impeachment trial of Governor Rod Blagojevich is coming to a close. After only three days... the prosecution yesterday finished calling all witnesses. But before its over... the trial takes a dramatic turn... with the appearance today... of the Governor himself. WUIS's Amanda Vinicky reports...

Blagojevich May Appear at Trial

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) _ The president of the Illinois Senate says Gov. Rod Blagojevich wants to make a statement at his impeachment trial. President John Cullerton told Senators Wednesday that the governor has asked to offer a closing statement at the trial on Thursday. Cullerton says Blagojevich is not asking to testify, which would involve answering questions from senators. Cullerton recommended that the Senate allow Blagojevich to speak. That view was supported by the Senate's top Republican, Christine Radogno. Blagojevich has refused to take part in the trial so far. He has said its rules are unfair and he's done nothing wrong. (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich was a no show again yesterday... the second day of his impeachment trial before the Illinois State Senate. But lawmakers heard from the Governor... as portions of FBI wiretaps were played publicly for the first time. WUIS's Sean Crawford has this report...

Senate Trial Day Two

Governor Rod Blagojevich is still boycotting the impeachment proceedings in Springfield, but his voice was heard in the Illinois Senate chamber Tuesday. State senators heard secretly recorded conversations in which the Governor appears to talk about pressuring people for campaign donations. WUIS' Jenna Dooley talks with Statehouse Reporter Amanda Vinicky about the day's proceedings...

Senators Hear Tapes

Illinois senators heard Gov. Rod Blagojevich's own voice when secret FBI recordings of the governor's conversations were played for the first time at his impeachment trial. The impeachment prosecutor on Tuesday said the taped conversations reveal the governor talking with a lobbyist about how to get campaign contributions in exchange for signing legislation wanted by the horse-racing industry. The recordings are part of the corruption investigation that led to Blagojevich's arrest last month. They're just part of many recordings made by the FBI and the U.S. attorney's office. The U.S. attorney won't release most of the tapes because that might interfere with his criminal investigation. But he's allowed the impeachment trial to hear a few minutes on just one topic. Blagojevich is boycotting the trial. He says it's rules prevent him from offering a real defense, and he's denied any wrongdoing. (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Tapes & Transcripts

Blagojevich on the TV Circuit

The impeachment trial of Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich is underway. The process began in the Illinois Senate yesterday... although the Governor was nowhere near. He is boycotting the trial... which might end in his removal from office. Instead of defending himself at the state capitol... Blagojevich is taking his argument to national TV. WUIS's Sean Crawford prepared this report...

Senate Trial Day One

A recap of today's proceedings at the Illinois Capitol. State Senators began the trial which could remove Governor Blagojevich from office, while the Governor made media rounds. WUIS' Jenna Dooley talks with WUIS Statehouse Bureau Chief Sean Crawford about the day's proceedings...

Senate Trial Begins

Chief Justice Thomas Fitzgerald SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) -- The prosecutor in Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich's impeachment trial says his goal is not to punish the governor. Ellis is the lawyer picked by the Illinois House to present the case against Blagojevich in a Senate trial. Senators will decide whether to convict the governor and remove him from office. Blagojevich is refusing to take part in the trial. He says its rules are biased against him. (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Blagojevich Media Blitz

Governor Rod Blagojevich's national media tour today has drawn strong criticism from some Illinois lawmakers. But at least one politician is refusing to pass judgment. Mike Rhee has more...

Senate Trial Motions

Blagojevich Hires PR Firm

CHICAGO (AP) --- A new public relations spokesman says Rod Blagojevich is eager to tell his side of the story as the start of the governor's impeachment trial looms. Blagojevich has hired Glenn Selig's PR firm to help him deal with media. The Tampa-based Publicity Agency is the same firm used by former suburban police sergeant Drew Peterson. Selig says the agency will be responsible for dealing with the media on personal matters related to Blagojevich _ not with issues directly related to Illinois state business. The governor's move to hire the firm comes amid a newly launched media blitz. That'll include Monday appearances by the governor on CNN's "Larry King Live," as well as on ABC-TV's "The View" and "Good Morning, America." Selig says Blagojevich will fly to New York and appear on the TV shows in person. (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Attorney Out, FBI Tapes In

A federal judge in Chicago has ruled that Illinois lawmakers conducting the upcoming impeachment trial can hear some FBI tapes allegedly recording Gov. Rod Blagojevich. Blagojevich says he plans to boycott the trial starting Monday because he thinks it's unfair. Also...A lead attorney for Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich's criminal case says he plans to resign from the case. Ed Genson made the announcement today in Chicago. Blagojevich has denied any wrongdoing in the corruption scandal. WUIS' Jenna Dooley speaks with WUIS Statehouse Bureau Chief Sean Crawford about the developments...

Blagojevich News Conference

At a Chicago news conference Friday, Governor Rod Blagojevich equated the impeachment proceedings against him with a "hanging." Amanda Vinicky has more...

Blagojevich Challenges Impeachment Trial

There was a pretty clear indication yesterday from an attorney for Gov. Rod Blagojevich that the Governor may ask the courts to step in and put a stop to his impeachment trial in the Illinois Senate. Attorney Samuel Adam told The Associated Press that a lawsuit challenging what he called "completely unfair" Senate trial rules is being prepared and could be filed within days. WUIS's Rich Bradley talked with Statehouse Bureau Chief Sean Crawford...

Mike for Governor

As the Illinois Senate prepares for a trial to determine whether Governor Rod Blagojevich will be removed from office, some voters are already looking forward to next year's race for governor. One group says the state would be well served by a former Chicago Bears football coach. Todd Feurer reports...

The Impeachment Process Begins

Governor Rod Blagojevich has not been to Illinois' capitol since he was arrested early last month. But yesterday... he returned in order to preside over the inauguration of the new state Senate. It was only a matter of hours later... that those same Senators began his impeachment trial. WUIS's Amanda Vinicky reports...

Another No Vote

Just days after the Illinois House impeached Governor Rod Blagojevich, lawmakers voted again. The only one to vote against impeachment this time around has family ties to the Governor. Todd Feurer reports...

Blagojevich Presides Over Senate

In what some state Senators describe as an awkward situation, Governor Rod Blagojevich presided over their inauguration Wednesday. It was the governor's first time back in Springfield since his arrest in early December on corruption charges. Amanda Vinicky describes how it went...

Impeachment Trial Underway

The Illinois Senate's impeachment trial of Governor Rod Blagojevich is underway … even though no testimony will be heard for several days. Sean Crawford reports...

The new Illinois House has voted to impeach Gov. Rod Blagojevich, reaffirming a previous vote. Illinois House Speaker spokesman Steve Brown says a second impeachment vote was needed because of the upcoming Senate trial. Brown says the vote from the previous House had expired. Blagojevich's sister-in-law Rep. Deb Mell, who was sworn-in today, was the sole "no" vote against today's resolution to impeach the Governor.

Blagojevich to Appear in Springfield

Governor Rod Blagojevich is scheduled to make his first appearance at the state capitol since his arrest on corruption charges last month. Blagojevich will preside over the Illinois Senate inauguration. Sean Crawford reports...

Prosecutor for Impeachment Trial Chosen

The attorney who will prosecute Governor Rod Blagojevich in the Senate impeachment trial says he is not undertaking the task lightly. Amanda Vinicky has more...

Emil Jones on Blagojevich Charges

The Illinois House has impeached its first governor in history. But whether Gov. Rod Blagojevich is removed from office is up to the Senate.

A: To impeach means to ``accuse.'' Impeachment is a public charge, similar to an indictment, that presages a trial.

A: Yes. The only way he would have to forfeit his office is if the Senate convicts him in its trial.

A: The Senate committee deciding the rules of the trial _ which won't be final until next week _ has scheduled it for Jan. 26.

Paperwork and preliminary motions, such as the governor's written answer to the charges, would be filed starting Wednesday, when the new Legislature is sworn in. There likely will be little action the following week when many Democrats will be attending the presidential inauguration of their former colleague, Barack Obama.

A: Sen. John Cullerton, chairman of the rules committee who is expected to become Senate president next week, said committee members hope to complete the trial by the time the legislative session resumes on Feb. 4.

A: Yes. Although he doesn't have to attend the trial, his lawyer may call witnesses and introduce evidence.

``We should angle toward a process that's more open in terms of the admission of evidence so all 59 senators get a full picture of what's happened here,'' said committee member Sen. Dale Righter, R-Mattoon.

A: Although it will occur in the Senate chamber in the Capitol, it will resemble a criminal or civil trial, with attorneys on both sides presenting evidence and questioning witnesses.

A: Although much of the structure is based on President Clinton's 1998 impeachment trial, there won't be ``managers'' for the case. The House is responsible for laying it out. House Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, said it's possible the House will draft an experienced prosecutor, but is waiting for final Senate rules.

A: A special House impeachment committee, meeting periodically from Dec. 16 to Thursday, produced a 59-page report outlining improper conduct. That was consolidated into a resolution adopted on the House floor that listed 13 impeachable offenses. Among them are illegal hiring, expanding a health care program without legislative approval, spending $2.6 million on a useless flu vaccine, and aspects of the federal criminal complaint filed upon the governor's arrest Dec. 9, charging him with, among other things, attempting to sell Obama's vacant U.S. Senate seat for political favors.

A: The Constitution doesn't specify, so like the Clinton trial, it will be up to each senator. Each could use a different burden, from ``beyond a reasonable doubt,'' as in a criminal trial, or ``a preponderance of the evidence,'' as in a civil trial, or something in between.

Committee member Sen. Kirk Dillard, R-Hinsdale, said he will lean toward the strictest standard. ``While I may have issues with Rod Blagojevich, as a lawyer, it is ingrained in me to give the gentleman his due process rights,'' Dillard said.

A: The Constitution requires the chief justice of the state Supreme Court to preside over an impeachment trial. Chief Justice Thomas Fitzgerald will decide on the admissibility of evidence, while the Senate can overrule him on majority vote.

``The committee wants to make sure that anything pertinent and relevant has its opportunity,'' said Sen. Dan Rutherford, R-Chenoa. ``This has to be as fair as possible, for the defense especially.''

A: Fitzgerald will ask questions submitted in writing by senators. Senators will not be allowed to call witnesses or introduce evidence.

Q: A trial's jury deliberations are closed. Will senators deliberate in private?

A: As it stands, the Senate would be able to close deliberations with a two-thirds majority vote. Committee member Sen. William Haine, D-Alton, said he argued for closed talks to prevent political speeches in public designed to pressure others to vote a certain way.

But a vote to convict or acquit will be in public. Senators may express their views then, Haine said.

A: The Senate will serve him a summons Wednesday _ probably at his Capitol office in Springfield because Blagojevich is scheduled to be there that day to swear in the new Senate. The summons does not compel his attendance, but notifies him of the action.

Blagojevich Responds To Impeachment

During the Friday afternoon news conference, Blagojevich touted his efforts to improve health care and cut property taxes for Illinois residents. He says members of the House resisted those efforts, and he contends his impeachment is related to their ongoing dispute...

SPECIAL STATE WEEK IN REVIEW

Listen to a special edition of State Week in Review. Rich Bradley moderates a discussion regarding Governor Blagojevich's impeachment by the Illinois House...

Court Rules in Burris Case

The Illinois Supreme Court says Secretary of State Jesse White's signature isn't required to validate Roland Burris' appointment to the U.S. Senate. Today's decision sends the question of seating Burris back to Democratic leaders in Washington.

Driven by anger and politics, the Illinois House has voted to impeach Gov. Rod Blagojevich. The unprecedented action sets the stage for a Senate trial on whether he should be thrown out of office for corruption and abuse of power. Blagojevich becomes the first Illinois governor to be impeached. House members found evidence that the two-term Democrat had abused his power, including improperly spending tax money, adopting programs without legislative approval and violating state hiring laws. He's denied wrongdoing. The House began impeachment proceedings after federal authorities arrested Blagojevich Dec. 9. He's accused, among other things, of attempting to sell an appointment to fill President-elect Barack Obama's vacant U.S. Senate seat for political favors. (AP)

Unanimous Impeachment Committee Vote

This morning the Illinois House is poised to do something it has never before in its nearly two hundred years of statehood... impeach a sitting governor. WUIS's Amanda Vinicky reports...

Roland Burris testifies before the Illinois House committee
that is expected to recommend impeachment for Governor Rod Blagojevich.
A key question is, did Burris pay to play? NPR's David Schaper reports.

The Illinois House Committee investigating the impeachment of Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich has released the "Proposed Report of the Special Investigative Committee." Read it here...

Impeachment Pressure

The Illinois House Committee on Impeachment is moving ever closer to making a recommendation to the full house. The panel is investigating the possible removal of Governor Rod Blagojevich... who faces federal corruption charges. As WUIS's Sean Crawford reports... lawmakers on the committee are chomping at the bit to finish their work...

Burris Meets With Senate Leaders

(AP) In an abrupt reversal, Senate Democratic leaders are sitting down with Roland Burris in the Capitol amid new indications that he's likely to be seated as the new senator from Illinois. But there's no final deal yet, and Senate officials say Burris' appointment still has to be certified by Illinois' secretary of state. Burris is meeting with Majority Leader Harry Reid and his lieutenant, Sen. Dick Durbin, in Reid's spacious suite off the Senate floor. Officials are searching for a way to let him take over President-elect Barack Obama's vacated Senate seat, a day after they turned him away for having incomplete paperwork. Democrats had claimed the appointment was tainted by allegations that Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich attempted to sell the seat.

Burris Scheduled To Testify

Roland Burris is scheduled to testify before a House impeachment committee on Thursday. His appearance could be a highlight of legislative hearings that appear to be close to wrapping up. Sean Crawford reports...

Trotter Says Vacant Seat Should Be Filled

Chicago Democratic Senator Donne Trotter says in his role as the state’s chief executive, Illinois Governor Blagojevich has duties to perform. Trotter says filling the U-S Senate vacancy was simply Blagojevich doing his job...

New Ethics Law

The campaign finance legislation that Governor Rod Blagojevich was allegedly trying to skirt... went into effect New Year's Day. Amanda Vinicky has more...

The Legal Test

Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich faces charges that include trying to profit from naming a new U-S Senator. Even so... Blagojevich went ahead and chose a successor to Barack Obama. The move has brought criticism... and could wind up forcing the state into a legal fight. WUIS's Sean Crawford reports...

Roland Burris Appointed to Fill Vacant Senate Seat

Governor Rod Blagojevich announced plans to appoint former Illinois Attorney General Roland Burris to the U.S. Senate to fill the seat vacated by President-elect Barack Obama. Here's audio from Burris' acceptance of the seat. Also includes comments from Congressman Bobby Rush....

Impeachment Hearings in Recess

The committee considering impeachment of Gov. Rod Blagojevich won't be back at work until Monday. The House committee is waiting to hear more about a motion by federal prosecutors to release some of the Blagojevich conversations they recorded, and the governor's attorney says he hasn't decided yet whether to support releasing the tapes. Sean Crawford... WUIS Statehouse Bureau Chief... talks with News Director Rich Bradley...

Blagojevich's Lawyer Takes His Turn

Governor Rod Blagojevich's defense attorney says the evidence against his client fails to meet the threshhold for impeachment. Sean Crawford reports...

The Illinois House committee investigating the possibility of impeaching Gov. Rod Blagojevich reconvenes today... and Blagojevich attorney Ed Genson is expected to take center stage. Sean Crawford is WUIS's Statehouse Bureau Chief... and talked with WUIS News Director Rich Bradley...

Federal Prosecutors Request

The U-S Attorney in Chicago is asking a state impeachment panel to stay clear of certain witnesses and testimony that could interfere with an ongoing federal investigation of the Governor. Sean Crawford reports...

Blagojevich lawyer needs more time

The Illinois House impeachment panel is taking a break for the remainder of the week. When the hearings resume... the Governor's attorney is expected to make his case. Sean Crawford reports...

Foregone Conclusions

The Illinois House impeachment committee will resume its work today (MONDAY) after a weekend recess. The 21 legislators on the panel are being asked to determine if Rod Blagojevich has done enough to warrant being removed from office. But... as WUIS's Amanda Vinicky reports ... the final outcome was probably decided before the hearings even began...

Governor Blagojevich's Statement

Governor Blagojevich held a brief news conference in Chicago denying all accusations of corruption against him in a federal criminal complaint. He took no questions after delivering this statement...

Blagojevich Says He Will Fight

Governor Rod Blagojevich says he is not guilty of any criminal wrongdoing and plans to stay on the job. Facing criminal charges and the threat of impeachment, Blagojevich says he will fight until he take his 'last breath.' Ben Calhoun has this report...

Mounting Legal Bills

Governor Rod Blagojevich alledgedly complains about his financial condition on FBI wiretaps. So it's unclear who will pay for his mounting legal bills. Amanda Vinicky reports...

The Illinois House Investigative Committee on Impeachment sent a letter Thursday to U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald. Read the letter here.

Root of the Problem

The latest round of testimony in the ongoing Illinois House impeachment inquiry focused on some of the more mundane areas of state government. But as Sean Crawford reports, much of it is at the root of lawmakers' problems with the Blagojevich Administration...

Lisa Madigan rejects Genson's request

The Illinois Attorney General has rejected a request from Ed Genson, Rod Blagojevich's attorney, to serve as a Special Assistant Attorney General. Read Lisa Madigan's reply here

Rowdy Hearing

Illinois' unprecedented foray into the possible impeachment of a sitting governor moved forward yesterday. Legislators on the special House committee exploring if impeaching Rod Blagojevich is warranted promised their deliberations would afford the governor fairness and due process. Governor Blagojevich has retained a high-profile Chicago lawyer to make sure that happens. WUIS's Amanda Vinicky reports...

Ed Genson's Press Conference

Governor Rod Blagojevich's attorney, Ed Genson (as well as another lawyer on Blagojevich's team, Sam Adam Jr.) at his press conference Tuesday.

Blagojevich's Attorney Clashes With State Representatives

Governor Rod Blagojevich's attorney made his first appearance before the House committee considering impeachment. As Amanda Vinicky reports, it was contentious...

Who Pays Blagojevich's Attorney Fees?

Governor Rod Blagojevich has hired a high profile defense attorney, but taxpayers could be footing the bill. Sean Crawford reports...
Read the filings with the Illinois Attorney General's Office from Ed Genson, Rod Blagojevich's attorney here and here

Blagojevich's Lawyer At Impeachment Hearings

Illinois lawmakers clashed with Ed Genson, Governor Rod Blagojevich's defense attorney, as they continue hearings to consider impeachment. Ben Calhoun reports...

The Illinois Supreme Court has refused to hear a challenge to Gov. Rod Blagojevich's fitness to hold office.Sean Crawford reports...

Near the end of a legislative session, tempers become short and frustration sets in. The frustration level seems to be highest among freshmen. Some say they were naive in expecting to be included in the end of session negotiations. WSSU's Mary McNeil talks with freshmen representatives, including Rod Blagojevich.

The first day of the investigations into possible impeachment-worthy conduct by Governor Rod Blagojevich ended after a couple of hours yesterday... without much fanfare. The members of a special Illinois House comittee looking into the matter are being cautious as they wade into unprecedented territory. WUIS's Amanda Vinicky reports...

Impeachment Committee Has No Findings Yet

The Illinois House committee that will investigate impeaching Rod Blagojevich finished its first day of work without any deliberations. Amanda Vinicky explains why it's holding off...

Impeachment Hearing Day 1

The political scandal involving Gov. Rod Blagojevich has created a "crisis of confidence" in state government. That's according to Democratic Rep. Barbara Flynn Currie of Chicago, the chair of a committee called to consider impeachment proceedings against the governor.
Currie says the 21-member bipartisan committee won't move too fast in making a decision. She says a rush to judgment doesn't serve the people of the state well.
Blagojevich was invited to the meeting when it resumes tomorrow; he's sending his attorney instead.
Currie says she's awaiting a response from U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald about whether the panel will be allowed to hear testimony from certain witnesses without compromising Fitzgerald's case against Blagojevich. (AP)
Listen to complete audio of Tuesday's hearing... (approximately 48 minutes)

The Illinois House is poised to begin investigating the possible impeachment of Governor Rod Blagojevich. Hearings are set to start at the state capitol. The historic action comes a week after federal authorities arrested Blagojevich for attempting to sell the state's vacant U-S Senate seat for personal gain. WUIS's Sean Crawford reports...

Madigan Takes Step Toward Governor's Impeachment

The Illinois Speaker of the House is taking the first step toward impeaching embattled Governor Rod Blagojevich. Speaker Michael Madigan announced that he's appointing a special committee to review the situation and recommend whether Blagojevich should be impeached. House Republican Leader Tom Cross also addresses reporters and WUIS' Rich Bradley and Sean Crawford provide analysis... (Runs approximately 1 hour)

Cross Ready For Impeachment Process

House Republican Leader Tom Cross says now that the Speaker has begun the impeachment process, it will help move the state forward. Cross had been calling for impeachment since the criminal complaint against Blagojevich came out last Tuesday

Blagojevich Health Legacy

Throughout his tenure, Governor Rod Blagojevich has tried to carve a niche for himself: health care advocate. But part of the criminal complaint laid out against him contradicts his commitment to helping sick kids. Amanda Vinicky reports...

Full Day at the Statehouse

State legislators are due back in session this afternoon to discuss their options in the wake of Governor Rod Blagojevich's arrest on corruption charges last week. The session's focus is supposed to be about considering a special election, but impeachment is likely to be the chief topic of conversation. The governor's spokesman says Blagojevich has no intention of resigning today. WUIS Statehouse Bureau Chief Sean Crawford talked with WUIS's Rich Bradley...

Governor Unfit to Serve

Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan's motion today with the state's supreme court to strip the scandal-plagued Gov. Rod Blagojevich of his powers says the governor's legal problems amount to a disability. In the filing, Madigan contends Blagojevich is unable to distinguish between his financial interest and his official duties and between legal conduct and illegal acts.The filing is the first of its kind in Illinois history. It asks that the lieutenant governor to assume Blagovich's powers. She said at a news conference that this unprecedented step is necessary because the allegations against Blagojevich have left the state government paralyzed.
Listen here to the full press conference, which was held just before noon today at the James R. Thompson Center in Chicago.

Impact on Bonding

Illinois may face further financial problems due to the scandal surrounding Governor Rod Blagojevich. Amanda Vinicky explains...

Undoing Blagojevich

Lieutenant Govenor Pat Quinn says if he becomes Governor... he would un-do some of Rod Blagojevich's controversial actions. Sean Crawford reports...

President-elect Barack Obama says he's confident no member of is staff was involved in discussing deals for his Senate seat with Governor Rod Blagojevich. Obama also said that he had no discussions with Blagojevich about the seat he is vacating. Obama said he was "as appalled and disappointed as anyone" by the allegations of Blagojevich's actions...

In a news conference at the Capitol, Lt. Governor Pat Quinn discusses actions to take in the wake of corruption allegations against Governor Rod Blagojevich. Listen to his remarks...

In a news conference at the Capitol, Lt. Governor Pat Quinn discusses actions to take in the wake of corruption allegations against Governor Rod Blagojevich. Listen to his 52-minute press conference...

Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich went to work a day after his appearance in federal court on corruption charges. Blagojevich's attorney says he has no plans to step down. That might force the legislature to take a rare action: impeachment. Sean Crawford reports...

The General Assembly is aiming to strip the governor of his ability to name someone to Illinois' vacant U.S. Senate seat. That requires changing the law, which brings up an interesting twist. Amanda Vinicky explains...

There are widespread calls from nearly every political player calling on Blagojevich to resign. But if he does not step down on his own, efforts could force him out of office. Amanda Vinicky has details...

Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich is free on bond after he was taken into custody Tuesday on federal corruption charges. Among the most shocking allegations include the Governor attempting to sell an appointment for the state's vacant U.S. Senate seat. Sean Crawford reports...
listen to U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitgerald's press conference in Chicago (audio slightly clipped at the start)

Listen to a special edition of "State Week in Review" from Tuesday, December 9. WUIS News Director Rich Bradley and panelists discuss the arrest of Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich.
WUIS broadcasts State Week in Review every Friday. Listen to the SWR archives or the SWR podcast to hear past news and analysis on Gov. Rod Blagojevich and Illinois government

A look at Gov. Rod Blagojevich
Name: Rod R. Blagojevich
Age: 51
Home: Chicago
Family: Wife, Patricia andtwo daughters
Education: Northwestern University, 1979; Pepperdine Law School, 1983 Experience: Elected Illinois governor 2002, re-elected 2006; served in the U.S. House of Representatives from Illinois' 5th district 1997-2002; served in the Illinois House from a North Side Chicago district 1992-1996; assistant Cook County state's attorney, prosecuting criminal cases.
Quote: ``I don't care whether you tape me privately or publicly. I can tell you that whatever I say is always lawful.''
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press)

A look at Blagojevich former chief of staff John Harris
Name: John F. Harris
Title: Chief of staff to Gov. Rod Blagojevich
Age: 46
Home: Chicago
Family: Wife Patricia and three sons.
Education: Graduated from Northwestern in 1984 and Loyola Univ. Law School in 1987.
Experience: Intelligence officer and judge advocate general in U.S. Army (1984-1992), administration of Chicago Mayor Richard M.Daley, including stint as budget director (1996-2005); Blagojevich administration (2005-December 2008).
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press.)

Tom Cross: The House Minority Leader said Blagojevich's arrest was shocking and historic.

Christine Radogno: The incoming Senate Minority Leader from Lemont says Blagojevich's arrest is an embarassment for Illinois and that he cannot possibly govern.

John Fritchey: The Democratic state representative from Chicago says he's struck by the "brazenness" outlined in Blagojevich's indictment. He says the governor should step down, but doesn't expect he will.

Larry Bomke: Springfield's Republican state senator says that there are ways the legislature can "limit the damage" Blagojevich can do.

Richard Daley: The Chicago mayor says it's up to Blagojevich to decide whether to resign. He also was surprised to hear that Blagojevich's chief of staff was also arrested. John Harris previously worked for Daley.

Jim Edgar: The Republican former Illinois governor says it's time for the public to say "enough is enough" to Blagojevich.

Dick Mell: The Chicago alderman, Blagojevich's father-in-law, says the one thing on his mind now is the governor's corruption charges.

Local workers: Jenna Dooley spoke with workers at the Department of Health Care and Family Services in Springfield. Many are excited about Blagojevich's arrest, because they say it could lead to state government reform.

Blagojevich's neighbors: Tony Arnold spoke to some of Gov. Rod Blagojevich's neighbers on Tuesday morning about the indictment.Andy McKenna: The state GOP chairman says the business of Illinois can't properly function unless Blagojevich steps aside.

Many people across America had never heard of Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich until he was arrested December 9 by federal authorities.
In its role as the state's leading public policy magazine, Illinois Issues has been reporting on Blagojevich for many years. This link takes you to an excerpt on Blagojevich from The Illinois Governors: Mostly Good and Competent, the definitive history of the governorship, published by Illinois Issues/Center Publications. It also links to past Illinois Issues articles about Blagojevich and others involved in the controversy.
Go to http://illinoisissues.uis.edu/Blagojevichhistory.html