Rod Blagojevich’s political saga is infamous for its controversy and striking detail – impeached from office in 2009 due to corruption charges, including the alleged attempt to sell Barack Obama’s Senate seat. After spending eight years behind bars in federal prison, he was released early on account of a commutation by former president Donald Trump. So what does his life look like today? Let us explore further!
A Return to the Public Eye
Since Blagojevich returned to public life, he has quickly asserted himself in the spotlight. He made several television and radio appearances, including talk shows, news programs, and podcasts. During these stints, he proclaimed his innocence while lambasting the criminal justice system; moreover, he targeted some of his former political rivals. Furthermore, Blagojevich expressed interest in writing a book that outlines his remarkable journey.
Blagojevich has not shied away from making bold statements and taking daring actions. In August 2020, he made international news by participating in a fundraiser for President Trump’s re-election campaign. Furthermore, his speech at the Republican National Convention highlighted Trump as an advocate for criminal justice reform due to his commuting his sentence.
Political Aspirations?
Although Blagojevich’s political tenure was tarnished by scandal, he has not written off the prospect of re-entering public office. During a February 2021 Politico interview, he teased at the idea of running for Congress one day. “I’m keeping my options open,” he said coyly when asked about his plans, leaving us to wonder whether we may soon see him on the ballot again in some capacity.
With Blagojevich’s notorious past, it remains to be viewed whether he could rally a successful political campaign. He is both venerated and reviled; some see him as an emblem of moral turpitude while others insist that the justice system was unjustifiably severe with him. If he decides to contest for office, it will be interesting how his prior convictions and clashes shape public sentiment in response.
Family Life and Personal Interests
Since his release from prison, Blagojevich has devoted himself to revitalizing his personal life. He and Patti have been reconnecting while spending time with their two daughters. During an interview with the Chicago Tribune in February 2021 he voiced how they are both “trying to build something new and fresh” together as they continue strengthening their marriage bond.
Apart from cherishing the time spent with his family, Blagojevich has also been able to indulge in some of his personal interests. Being an enormous admirer of Elvis Presley, he loves singing karaoke renditions of The King’s classic melodies. Additionally, he is a big fan of guitar playing and songwriting – both activities that keep him busy!
Criticism and Controversy
Despite his attempts to recover from the damage of his past, Blagojevich remains a contested figure. Many individuals feel that he has not sufficiently expressed remorse for what he did and continues to attempt to shift guilt onto others. Such media appearances or statements have been lambasted as being inconsiderate to those affected by his actions and solely driven by self-interest.
Republican dissent against Blagojevich has surfaced in January 2021, as the Illinois GOP officially censured him for endorsing President Trump’s untruthful assertions of electoral fraud. Many members of his own political party have deemed him a responsibility and fear that being tied to him may negatively affect their voting prospects.
Conclusion
Despite no longer residing in a political office, Rod Blagojevich continues to remain an intriguing and controversial figure. Since his departure from prison, he has been present on multiple media outlets, suggested a potential return to politics, concentrated on his personal life as well as endured criticism from certain individuals.
Regardless of his uncertain future, Blagojevich has shown himself to be a bold character who speaks up and strives for what he wants regardless of the odds. Love him or loathe him, there is no denying that he is one of the most intriguing public figures around today. Though only time can tell us where this remarkable journey will take us next.
