* He’s just gonna drag everybody in, apparently. I think I should just send out a blast e-mail to everyone in Illinois politics asking if they’ve been subpoenaed, too…
U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, the chamber’s No. 2 Democrat, said he was subpoenaed by the defense to testify in the June 3 corruption trial of former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich.
“Whether I’m going to be called, I don’t know,” Durbin said, adding that he received the subpoena “several” weeks ago. “But, you know, a subpoena is an order of the court to appear. And if I’m called to appear, I will.”
Blagojevich’s lawyers are asking the federal judge overseeing his case to compel President Barack Obama to testify in order to dispute allegations against the impeached governor.
U.S. District Judge James Zagel will consider that request on April 30. White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs wouldn’t comment on the possibility of the president being subpoenaed in the case.
Durbin said he was interviewed for about 30 minutes “several months” ago by federal investigators in the Blagojevich case.
More…
Last year, Durbin was interviewed by the federal prosecution for the case. At that time he said he had one 10 to 15 minute conversation with Blagojevich about the U.S. Senate seat left vacant by President Barack Obama, which Blagojevich is accused of trying to sell. Durbin said he suggested 10-20 names that should be considered for the replacement.
…Adding… I sent out some e-mails to various spokespersons and just got my first reply. The governor’s office says Gov. Quinn has not been subpoenaed.
…Adding… Senate President Cullerton’s office said he has not been subpoenaed, either.
…Adding… Lisa Madigan is a “no” as well.
…Adding… Speaker Madigan is a “no.”