Dec 10, 2008 6:37 pm US/Central
Governor's Father-In-Law Concerned For Family
Daughter Patti Blagojevich Taped By Feds
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
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Alderman Dick Mell says he is concerned about his daughter Patti Blagojevich and his grandchildren.
CBS 2
In a very personal perspective on the problems facing Governor Rod Blagojevich and his wife, Chicago Alderman Dick Mell, father of Patti Blagojevich, spoke with CBS 2's Dorothy Tucker Wednesday about a very challenging time for the family.
"Right now my main concern is her and the grandchildren," Mell said.
From his front porch, a somber Dick Mell spoke briefly about his daughter Patti. It's clear he's giving her his full support despite their stormy past.
The relationship between the alderman and his daughter became strained in November 2005. Mell got angry when his son-in-law closed down a landfill that belonged to one of Mell's relatives. Back then, Patti sided with her husband.
"Rod had to do what he thought was right, and protect the public and protect the environment" Patti Blagojevich said.
But today, there was no indication of any friction.
"It's a trying time obviously for her and I think in fact that it's unfortunately very difficult for her and the kids," Mell said. "It's not a good situation."
Patti Blagojevich may need her father's support. According to the government complaint, Patti is caught on tape talking about the Tribune - telling her husband that if the company wants him to seek state support for Wrigley Field and the Cubs, then the Tribune should fire members of the editorial board. She says, "To hold up that f***ing Cubs (bleep). F*** them."
Such language surprised Blagojevich's neighbors.
"I don't talk like that," said neighbor Anna Hernandez. "It's really disappointing.
But from her own mouth in past interviews, the governor's wife admits she can be a little abrasive.
"I have to bite my tongue a lot," Patti said. "I've got a lot of opinions. People who know me know that I don't hold back. It's bad."
This time her tongue may have brought unwanted attention.
Alderman Mell's younger daughter Deborah will be sworn in as state representative in January. She'll be holding the same legislative seat as her brother-in-law once did.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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