CHICAGO (AP) — Unlike during his first trial on corruption charges, impeached Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich is expected to testify during his retrial in Chicago.
A Blagojevich spokesman says the former governor plans to testify but it’s unclear when he’ll take the stand. Defense attorneys could call him as soon as Thursday, when the trial resumes.
Blagojevich could be a formidable witness if he’s well prepared and maintains his cool. But he could have second thoughts. He’s sure to face blistering cross-examination from prosecutors who would likely replay FBI wiretaps that captured his blunt, profanity-laced talk.
During the first trial, Blagojevich’s attorneys didn’t call any witnesses. That jury deadlocked on 23 of the 24 counts, including allegations that Blagojevich tried to sell or trade President Barack Obama’s former U.S. Senate seat.
