News Local/State

Blagojevich Files New Argument In Appeal

 

Rod Blagojevich's lawyers have submitted an additional argument on why an appeals court in Chicago should overturn the convictions of the imprisoned former governor.

Jurors convicted the Democrat on multiple corruption counts, including that he tried to swap an appointment to President Barack Obama's old Senate seat for campaign money or a job. 

Wednesday's two-page filing with the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals refers to an April Supreme Court decision striking down laws that restrict aggregate limits on campaign contributions. 

Defense lawyers say that ruling also indicated the solicitation of contributions was corruption only when a politician gave a clear promise to take some official action in exchange for the donation. They say Blagojevich never made such promises.

Prosecutors are expected to file a response in the coming days.