Blago's Brother: Take the Stand, Rod

The older brother of Rod Blagojevich has some advice for the former Illinois governor just days away from his corruption retrial: Take the stand.

Robert Blagojevich could have faced retrial as his brother's co-defendant this week. Last year, a jury deadlocked on all four corruption charges against the Tennessee businessman, and prosecutors later dropped charges against him.

The ousted governor's big brother said taking the stand in his own defense, along with a clutch decision by his lawyer, is why he's not on trial again.

"I can tell you that Rod can be his best defense," the older Blagojevich said.

Robert Blagojevich told The Chicago Sun-Times that the trial strained the relationship between the brothers even more.

He says the ex-governor needs to be prepared to answer questions when it comes to the recordings.

Rod Blagojevich's trial begins Wednesday.

His first trial ended last year after a jury deadlocked on 23 of 24 counts against him, including allegations that he tried to sell President Barack Obama's vacated U.S. Senate seat.

Watch NBC Chicago at 10 p.m. for Carol Marin's one-on-one interview with Robert Blagojevich.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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