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Friend and former top aide testifies against Blagojevich

By Sam Hudzik, WBEZ

Chicago, IL – A former top aide and close friend of Rod Blagojevich continues his testimony today in the ex-governor's corruption trial.

This is the third day of testimony for Alonzo "Lon" Monk. He agreed to be a government witness in exchange for a lighter prison sentence for himself.

Last week, Monk portrayed Blagojevich as concerned about his family's finances and nervous about slow campaign fundraising in 2008. In a taped conversation the prosecution played, Blagojevich can be heard saying "jack them up" in reference to possible contributors.

Prosecutors allege Blagojevich tried to leverage campaign donations through his power to fill a vacant U.S. Senate seat.

Monk also testified that Blagojevich wanted to delay a massive road project unless the asphalt industry donated a half million dollars. The defense has yet to cross-examine Monk, but a Blagojevich attorney said in opening statements that Monk took advantage of his old friend.

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