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Horse Racing and Jerry Reinsdorf Come Up at Blago Trial
Another day of testimony in the political corruption trial of ex-Gov. Rod Blagojevich brought allegations that Blagojevich was reaching out to anyone and everyone to try to fill his campaign war chest.

Former Blagojevich chief of staff turned fundraiser Lon Monk testified Monday that Blagojevich's campaign reached out to Jerry Reinsdorf and was looking for a $50,000 campaign contribution before new ethics laws were to begin. Reinsdorf is owner of the Chicago Bulls and the Chicago White Sox. Monk did not say whether a contribution was made.

Monk also told the jury that Blagojevich was looking for a $100,000 contribution from John Johnston, an owner of a horse racing track. The prosecution is trying to prove that Blagojevich was holding up a bill that would benefit track owners until Johnston made that donation. Monk believed at the time, however, that Blagojevich was going to sign a number of bills at once, so he was waiting for those to come through.

So far only two witnesses have testified in the trial, which is expected to last many weeks.

(Illinois Radio Network)
06 14 10 by Newsroom
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