Blago Wanted Fundraising From Rahm Brother: Tusk

Former Deputy Governor Bradley Tusk testified Thursday that he was ordered to aid in holding up a grant to a northwest side school, pending a fundraiser from then-congressman Rahm Emanuel.

Tusk said Emanuel's office had called to inquire about the status of the $2 million grant, which had been approved but was long overdue in being paid. Tusk said when he asked Blagojevich about the status of the grant, the governor was blunt.

"He said the grant would not be released unless the congressman's brother held a fundraiser first.  He wanted me to communicate that to Congressman Emanuel."

Emanuel's brother Ari is a wealthy Hollywood agent. Tusk said he never made that call to Emanuel.  Indeed, he said he did not want to even talk to Blagojevich on the topic.

"I got off the phone as quickly as I could."

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