The stress of facing federal charges might be taking a toll on the relationship between brothers Rod and Robert Blagojevich. “Its not what it was, its a little strained” says Robert, the elder brother of the embattled former Illinois Governor. Robert Blagojevich plead not guilty today in federal court, on charges connected to the alleged attempted sale of the Illinois Senate seat, once held by Barack Obama. He faces charges of attempted extortion, conspiracy to commit extortion and conspiracy to commit bribery. “I’m an innocent man, I’ve done nothing wrong and I look forward to getting my name back” he said. Robert, who lives with his family in Nashville Tennessee, says all the costs involved with defending himself, and flying back and forth to Chicago, have been draining.
Both men’s cases are expected to go to trial this summer. Their attorneys agree on one major factor: to allow the government to play secret FBI recordings of them, in court.
Click here to see Robert Blagojevich’s brief comments to the media after his arraignment.