Today’s news about the arrest of Rod Blagojevich raises the question: Just how corrupt to you have to be to be governor of Illinois?
In addition to Blagojevich, the record is pretty amazing:
George Ryan (R) 1998-2002: Currently serving time in federal prison for corruption.
Dan Walker (D) 1972-1976: Went to jail for 18 months after he was out of office for improper loans from a failed savings and loan.
Otto Kerner (D) 1960-1968: Went to prison for accepting bribes while governor.
William Stratton (R) 1952-1960: Charged but acquitted on income tax evasion charges.
Len Small (R) 1920-1928: Charged with embezzling state funds as Illinois treasurer, he was acquitted but the trial outcome was clouded by accusations of jury tampering.