Dec 9, 2008 12:49 pm US/Central
Feds: 'New Low' For Illinois Politics
'If It's Not Most Corrupt State, It's A Close Competitor'
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
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Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich speaks to the media after visiting with workers occupying the Republic Windows and Doors factory on Dec. 8, 2008, in Chicago, Ill.
Scott Olson/Getty Images
In a state with a long history of political shenangians, federal prosecutors today said the arrest of Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich was a "new low."
The arrest comes only two years after his predecessor, George Ryan, was convicted of pay-to-play politics in Illinois. Even seasoned FBI agents, were appalled by Blagojevich's alleged conduct.
Robert Grant, FBI special agent in charge, also said today's developments were a new low for the state of Illinois.
"I can tell you one thing If it isn't the most corrupt state, it certainly is one hell of a competitor," Grant said.
Grant said agents were "thoroughly disgusted and revolted by what we heard" in Blagojevich's alleged actions.
Blagojevich was accused of trying to sell the Senate seat vacated by President-elect Barack Obama. He also was accused of allegedly shaking down the Tribune Co. over the sale of Wrigley Field. He also attempted to gain political donations and cash in exchange for state business.
"If it's true, it's a very, very sad comment because the selection of a U.S. senator is vitally important to the future of this state and this country," Mayor Daley said. "If it's true, it's a very, very sad day and very sad comment about him.
"It is conduct that would make [President] Lincoln roll over in his grave," said U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald.
Three former Illinois governors have gone to prison in the past 35 years, and a host of other governors have gotten into legal trouble.
Otto Kerner, a Democrat who was governor from 1961 to 1968, served less than a year of a three-year sentence after his 1973 conviction on bribery, tax evasion and other counts. He was convicted of arranging favorable horse racing dates as governor in return for getting horse racing association stock at reduced prices. Kerner died in 1976.
Dan Walker, a Democrat who was governor from 1973 to 1977, served 1 1/2 years of a seven-year sentence after pleading guilty in 1987 to bank fraud, misapplication of funds and perjury. The charges were not related to his service as governor.
Ryan, a Republican who was governor from 1999 to 2003, was convicted of corruption in 2006 for steering state contracts and leases to political insiders and helping cover up bribes paid in return for truck drivers licenses while he was secretary of state and then governor. He is serving a 6 1/2-year prison term.
The Associated Press contributed to this report
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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