Share Your Thoughts: Blagojevich Sentenced to 14 Years, Apologizes

Former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich was sentenced this afternoon to 14 years in prison for his June conviction on 17 counts of federal corruption charges.

According to CNN, Blagojevich told Federal Judge James Zagel on Wednesday morning that he was "unbelievably sorry" for his actions in trying to sell the U.S. Senate seat formerly held by President Barack Obama. He spoke for about 20 minutes at his his sentencing hearing.

Zagel's response, according to the report: "It comes late."

Blagojevich, who had faced 20 corruption charges in his second trial, was convicted on 11 charges for trying to sell the Senate seat. He was also found guilty of attempting to shake down executives for campaign donations.

Blagojevich is the fourth Illinois governor in the last 40 years to be found guilty of crimes. Former Illinois governors George Ryan, Dan Walker and Otto Kerner have also been convicted.

Response from local legislators

Local legislators have released responses in reaction to Wednesday's sentencing. Below are exerpts:

Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno:

“It is a sad day for his children. I wish Blagojevich had thought about the impact his actions would have on his family and the citizens of Illinois. Elected officials have to understand there are consequences to corruption and erosion of the public trust.  We have closed a sad chapter in Illinois history and we have to remain vigilant that history not repeat itself. Unfortunately, it’s an ongoing process in Illinois.”

Sen. Kirk Dillard:

"Thankfully this verdict marks the end of a long, sorry story in Illinois history. It should serve as a reminder that we have to be diligent in fighting corruption in our government. As a lawyer and the spokesperson on the Senate Judiciary Committee, I believe in the American judicial system and support Judge Zagel's sentence.

As far as those who believe Blagojevich deserved a more lenient penalty, I'll say this: My mother always told me you reap what you sow and I believe this sentence is a good reflection of that."

Sen. Dillard's full statement can be found on his Facebook page here.

Rep. Judy Biggert:

"The former governor left behind a legacy of disgrace and dysfunction, and his sentencing today represents justice for the people whose trust he abused.  Illinois deserves better, and I hope that our new leaders in Springfield take this episode as a reminder that no one is above the law.  It’s time to close this sad chapter for our state, and get back to doing the work of the people.”

Rep. Patti Bellock:

“Rod Blagojevich was sentenced today to 14 years in federal prison.  Former Governor Blagojevich was punished for his crimes, and I believe going forward this will be a deterrent for elected officials not to abuse their power and respect their oath of office.

It is time to put this governor behind us and focus on the future. Illinois’ citizens are tired of the corruption, and I will continue to work on stricter ethics laws.”