As Illinois citizens have been awaiting a verdict for former Illinois Governor, yesterday proved to be a victory for Rod Blagojevich. Jurors found him guilty on one count, making false statements to a federal agent. On the other 23 counts, the jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict.
I met Rod Blagojevich live and in person on Christmas Eve in 2008 while taking my daughter to see Santa Claus at Bloomingdale’s, which was shortly after the allegations against him were made public. He and his wife Patty were there also taking their daughters to see Santa Claus.
Governor Rod with me and Lulu
He is very charming and projects the same persona you see on TV. I guess you can say he is true to his authentic self. I was most struck by his self confidence in such a time of chaos for him and his family.
Rod made a point to meet and greet the other families standing in line and was kind enough to take this photo with me and Lulu. I don’t recall any other people requesting a photo op which is probably one of the reasons I asked. It was a little awkward.
Also, at the time we had no idea what would become of his political career or as a free man and I was not about to miss the opportunity to document meeting the infamous (and soon to be) former Governor. That’s what scrapbook memories are all about!
It was for my kids….
It is really sad that his term came to an end in this manner and this will be how he is remembered by the citizens of Illinois, his family and unfortunately his children.
