Blagojevich lawyer says ex-gov. ‘fooled’ by Rezko, innocent of any fundraising schemes

more images

more images

Lawyer: Blagojevich trusted the wrong people

CHICAGO — Rod Blagojevich’s lawyer says the former Illinois governor did nothing wrong — but simply trusted the wrong people.

Attorney Sam Adam Jr. is delivering a fiery opening statement. He says convicted influence peddler Antoin “Tony” Rezko helped raise money for lots of political candidates, including Blagojevich. But he says “not a single penny” of ill-gotten money went into Blagojevich’s campaign fund or his own pockets.

Blagojevich has pleaded not guilty to trying to sell or trade President Barack Obama’s former Senate seat and to squeeze campaign donations from people. Rezko was convicted of skimming campaign contributions and seeking personal kickbacks from companies.

Adam says Blagojevich thought Rezko knew campaign laws because he was so good at raising money.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

CHICAGO (AP) — An attorney for Rod Blagojevich says the former governor is an honest man who “didn’t take a dime.”

Fiery defense attorney Sam Adam Jr. says by the end of the case, jurors will know that in their gut. In presenting the opening statement to jurors, he also says Blagojevich will take the stand on his own behalf.

Earlier, a federal prosecutor said Blagojevich sought to use his power as governor to get benefits for himself and his inner circle.

Blagojevich has pleaded not guilty to trying to sell or trade President Barack Obama’s former Senate seat. He also denies that he plotted to turn his power as governor into a moneymaking scheme for himself and insiders.