The federal judge for Rod Blagojevich's second corruption trial almost immediately refused a request from the former governor's lawyers this morning to delay by several weeks the opening of the proceedings
The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Blagojevich's lawyers requested the delay from Judge James Zagel because they have spent the last several weeks sorting out legal issues around the case, including what evidence will be allowed. Jury selection starts April 20th.
After the hearing, an attorney for Blagojevich complained about some of the evidence that will be allowed - credit card receipts that show the former Illinois governor spent heavily on sits - and questions that won't - whether lavish spending is illegal. Judge Zagel said he would restrict the evidence if the defense wanted.
Blagojevich is charged with, among other things, attempting to sell an appointment to the Senate seat vacated by President Obama in 2008. He was convicted on a single count of lying to the FBI in 2010.
