Marathon Pundit: Blago unplugged in Springfield

I'm watching Rod Blagojevich's "Checkers" speech. In short, he says, "I've done noghing wrong." He skewered the state Senate's case regarding impeachment charges related to his proposals to import pharmaceuticals and flu vaccines.

Regarding the former, he suggested to the Senate the Barack Obama fire his chief-of-staff, Rahm Emanuel, because he was the one, Blago claims, that came up with the idea to import prescription drugs from Canada.

Don't look for that to happen.

He appealed for sympathy, discussing his father's dashed dreams to serve as an officer in Yugoslavian army, and then how he toiled as a factory worker to make the life of his children better. He reminded the Senate that he was elected as governor twice, and the importation plans were conceived, and shot down, during his first term. His reasoning was, "Why wasn't I impeached then?" And he told the Senate, "Imagine yourself walking in my shoes," when the FBI knock on your door.

That line may have put shivers in the spines of at least some Senators--Illinois is of course known for its corrupt political culture.

There was a hiccup of speculation this morning that Blago announce his resignation.

He didn't do that. "I want you to vote to acquit," he declared.

Blago maintains his innocence, and repeated his demand, an empty one, to call all of the witnesses he wants.

I'm watching of the impeachment proceedings on Fox 32 Chicago. The ABC, NBC, CBS, and CW owned-and-operated stations, are also carrying the impeachment coverage live, as are of course the cable news networks, including local news station CLTV.

Blago spoke passionately, without notes, but I don't think he changed many minds.

Next, the prosecution will make its closing argument, then senators, the same men and women the the governor ignored for three days, are allowed to make five minute speeches.

State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, who does not have a vote, was interviewed by Fox 32's Jack Conaty, called Blago's speech "arrogant and selfish," and he doesn't think it changed any votes.

As for how Blago gets hom: He's on his way to the Springfield airport, and he plans to immediately fly back to Chicago. If Blagojevich is not governor, finding a way back to his Northwest Side bungalow might be difficult, unless Patrick Quinn throws a favor to his onetime running mate.

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