First they took his power, now they’re after his money.
Rod Blagojevich’s antics -- which include a radio gig, a book deal and an Elvis impersonation among other stunts -- have finally drawn the interest of Illinois lawmakers, who passed legislation barring corrupt elected officials from profiting on their crimes.
Poor Rod. Since he was booted from Springfield, profiting from his ouster's been his only job.
"If you're a crooked Chicago alderman or a governor, I'm not going to let you cash in on that notoriety," said Rep. Jack Franks (D-Marengo), who sponsored the bill. Governor Pat Quinn, who took over for the deposed Blago, signed the bill yesterday.
There are certain caveats to the law. The corrupt politician must be convicted of a crime for the windfall collection to apply, and the attorney general would have to obtain a court order to grab the cash.
"Should [Blagojevich] be acquitted, then he'll have nothing to worry about," Franks said.
Lisa Madigan, Illinois’ attorney general, said Tuesday that the "prepared to enforce the law in any situation where it is applicable."
Blago’s people could not be reached for comment.
