See his public words on the matter
The convicted former governor of Illinois, Rod Blagojevich began his 14-year jail sentence today in the most recent episode of a whirlwind political scandal put on by the 55-year old.
Rod Blagojevich was convicted of a slew corruption charges, including the most infamous, of trying to sell or trade the Senate seat vacated by President Barack Obama. He did receive a not-guilty charge for attempting to extort Mayor Rahm Emanuel.
The talkative and charismatic Democrat Blagojevich reported to the public outside of his Chicago home the night before, “I’m leaving with a heavy heart, a clear conscience and I have high, high hopes for the future. He added, “Saying goodbye is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do.”
Helicopters followed his car from the airport in Littleton, Co. and journalists reported the last moments of Rod Blagojevich’s freedom were spent driving around the Federal Correctional Institution England, waving at spectators and stopping for lunch before stepping out of a black SUV.
“I think it’s kind of surreal to him, but he seems in good spirits,” said Brian Pyle, the owner of Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers; the final place Blagojevich had lunch before submitting to a near decade and a half of shackles. Pyle said he shook the governor-gone-criminal’s hand as he was leaving and told him, “Stay strong.” Blagojevich thanked him says Brian Pyle.
Here is the video report of Rod Blagojevich prior to his jail sentence:
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