Illinois Governor Taken into Custody for Abusing His Authority to Appoint Obama Successor

A 76-page FBI affidavit alleges that Blagojevich was intercepted on court-authorized wiretaps during the last month conspiring to sell or trade Illinois' U.S. Senate seat vacated by President-elect Barack Obama for financial and other personal benefits for himself and his wife. At various times, in exchange for the Senate appointment, Blagojevich discussed obtaining:

- a substantial salary for himself at a either a non-profit foundation or an organization affiliated with labor unions;

- placing his wife on paid corporate boards where he speculated she might garner as much as $150,000 a year;

- promises of campaign funds - including cash up front; and

- a cabinet post or ambassadorship for himself.

Update: The federal criminal complaint reports that Blagojevich corruptly solicited and demanded "the firing of certain Chicago Tribune editorial members responsible for widely-circulated editorials critical" of him.

Update:In a conversation with Harris on November 11, the charges state, Blagojevich said he knew that the President-elect wanted Senate Candidate 1 for the open seat but "they're not willing to give me anything except appreciation. [Expletive] them." The complaint does not mention her name, but the description makes clear that Blagojevich is referring to Valerie Jarrett.

Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), who is reportedly under consideration for the open Senate seat, said she was "absolutely shocked" to hear the news. She said the prosecutor should "have a really good reason" for going into Blagojevich's house and taking him into custody in front of his family. Watch it:

Blagojevich told reporters yesterday, "I don't believe there's any cloud that hangs over me. I think there's nothing but sunshine hanging over me."

According to the Illinois constitution, the Lt. Governor is first in line to take over as Governor, "[i]f the Governor is unable to serve because of death, conviction on impeachment, failure to qualify, resignation or other disability." Should Blagojevich be subject to any of these conditions in the near future, Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn would assume power and be responsible for appointing Obama's successor.

Download a copy of the indictment HERE.