Illinois' political elite wasted no time weighing in on Governor Rod Blagojevich's guilty verdict.
Few had kind words.
Adam Kinzinger, Republican U.S. Representative released a statment saying that "Rod Blagojevich never seemed to understand the difference between serving the public and serving his personal self interests."
Kinzinger went on to say that "he abused and shattered public trust." He also applauded the U.S. Attorney's office for their hard work.
Illinois State Treasurer Dan Rutherford said, “The guilty verdict against former Governor Rod Blagojevich closes a long, embarrassing chapter for the citizens of Illinois. He deserves everything he’s going to get.”
Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka released a statement, sounding torn over her feelings about the verdict.
"I am heartened by the Jury's verdict against Rod Blagojevich, and pleased to see justice after many months of waiting. But make no mistake: this is nothing to celebrate," Topinka said.
Local
John Cullerton, Illinois Senate President expressed his pleasure with the verdict.
"Once again, the former governor's pattern of dishonesty has been confirmed. I thank the jury for its public service. Just as it was sad but necessary for the Senate to remove him from office, today is another sad event for Illinois," Cullerton said. "I would hope that this verdict would further allow us as a state to move on and ahead."
Republican United States Senator Mark Kirk released a statement critical of the former Governor.
"Today's verdict is a stark reminder that no one is above the law," Kirk said.
State officials aren't the only ones who have strong opinions on the verdict. Some of his neighbors have some strong words for and against the former Governor.
"I think the jury finally got it right! Everyone, regardless of their social status, must answer to the law, and justice must be served," said Susan Nelson
"I'm angry," says Alex Villareal, "He's a good man. He talked about things but never did anything bad. Why didn't they wait until he sold the Senate seat? They're making an example of him."
More politicians will likely weigh in soon. Stay tuned to Ward Room to hear what others have to say.
