Rod Blagojevich Net Worth, Gubernatorial Legacy, Prison Life and Release
Rod Blagojevich, a former American politician whose career ended in controversy, currently maintains a net worth of $100,000. His journey from Governor of Illinois to convicted felon marks one of the most dramatic falls from grace in American political history. After serving 8 years of a 14-year sentence for bribery solicitation, he received an early release through President Donald Trump’s commutation in February 2020.
Political Ascent
Rod Blagojevich’s political career began promisingly. He represented Illinois’ 5th district in the United States House of Representatives from 1997 to 2003. His breakthrough came in 2003 when he became Illinois’ 40th Governor, making history as the first Democrat to win this position in three decades. He maintained this role until his dramatic removal in 2009.
Early Life and Education
Born on December 10, 1956, in Chicago, Illinois, Blagojevich came from humble beginnings as the son of Serbian immigrants, Radislav and Mila. Growing up alongside his older brother Rob, he demonstrated early work ethic through various jobs including shoeshining, pizza delivery, and meat packing.
His educational journey took him from Lane Technical High School (before transferring to Foreman High School) to the University of Tampa, where he spent two years before completing his BA in history at Northwestern University in 1979. He later earned his JD from Pepperdine University School of Law in 1983.
Professional Journey and Rise to Power
Rod Blagojevich’s political career began modestly, clerking for Chicago alderman Edward Vrdolyak before becoming an assistant prosecutor under Richard M. Daley. His elected career started in 1992 with the Illinois House of Representatives, representing the 33rd district. By 1996, he had successfully campaigned for the U.S. House of Representatives, winning three consecutive terms.
Gubernatorial Legacy
The 2002 gubernatorial campaign marked a significant milestone in Blagojevich’s career. With crucial support from his father-in-law, alderman Richard Mell, he secured victory against Illinois Attorney General Jim Ryan. His administration championed several progressive initiatives, including:
- Death penalty reform
- Statewide smoking ban implementation
- State Earned Income Tax Credit
- Expansion of health programs like KidCare
- Anti-discrimination legislation protecting sexual orientation
However, his tenure also faced criticism over state spending decisions and challenging relationships with fellow lawmakers.
The Corruption Scandal and Downfall
December 2008 marked the beginning of Blagojevich’s downfall when federal agents arrested him at his home. The charges included:
- Corruption related to Bank of America dealings
- Multiple pay-to-play schemes
- Attempted selling of Barack Obama’s vacant Senate seat
A notorious FBI recording captured him saying: “I’ve got this thing, and it’s fucking golden. I’m just not giving it up for fucking nothing.”
The Illinois House voted 114-1 for impeachment in January 2009, resulting in his removal from office and a lifetime ban from Illinois public service. Federal conviction followed, with 17 charges including conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, leading to his imprisonment.
Prison Life and Release
During his incarceration at the Federal Correctional Institution in Englewood, Colorado, Blagojevich showed his creative side as the lead singer of the “Jailhouse Rockers,” a prison band. His eight-year imprisonment ended with Donald Trump’s commutation in 2020.
Media Career and Personal Life
Post-governorship, Blagojevich engaged in various media ventures:
- Starred in “Rod Blagojevich Superstar” by Second City
- Hosted a radio show on 890 WLS
- Published his autobiography “The Governor”
- Competed on “The Celebrity Apprentice”
- Launched “The Lightning Rod” podcast after prison
Family Life
Rod Blagojevich married Patricia, daughter of former Chicago alderman Richard Mell, with whom he has two daughters. Patricia, who served as Illinois’ First Lady during his governorship, later appeared on the reality show “I’m a Celebrity… Get Me out of Here!” following her husband’s impeachment.
