Blago Softens Delivery

Rod Blagojevich didn't bring his usual bluster along when he arrived at the Dirksen Federal Building Thursday for jury selection in his retrial.

Blagojevich didn't take to the pulpit to deliver some bombastic anti-government speech. He didn't glad-hand well wishers (though he did sign an autograph) and he quietly walked into the federal courthouse.

Earlier, at his house where a gaggle of reporters was staged, Blagojevich told them if they wanted to hear about the trial, they would have to come to the courthouse an listen to the proceedings. He did quote Henry IV and laud his defense team, but he didn't take aim at the prosecution.

Is Blagojevich heeding the warning of Judge James Zagel, who earlier this week said the defendant should tone down his rhetoric in public?

If today is any indication, we might not be treated to the over-the-top Blagojevich speeches that defined the first trial.

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