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Public Official A

‘Public Official A’ uncovers the rise and fall of former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich. How he did whatever it took to reach the top. The trail of destruction left in his wake. And how the complexities, charisma, and tragic flaws of this public official resonate today.

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Remember when the governor of Illinois supposedly tried to sell President Obama’s Senate seat? Or, how the same ex-governor got a “You’re fired” from Donald Trump on The Celebrity Apprentice? From WBEZ Chicago, this podcast uncovers the rise and fall of former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich. How he did whatever it took to reach the top. The trail of destruction left in his wake. And how the complexities, charisma, and tragic flaws of this public official resonate today.

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  • Preview: Public Official A

    Remember when the governor of Illinois supposedly tried to sell President Obama’s Senate seat? Or, how the same ex-governor got a “You’re fired” from Donald Trump on ‘The Celebrity Apprentice’? New …

    Listen — 2:28

  • Part 1: Spare The Rod

    After Gov. Rod Blagojevich was arrested, he got a 14-year prison sentence. Then, on Feb. 18, 2020, President Trump commuted him.

    Listen — 33:38

  • Part 2: It’s A Family Business

    The trouble started soon after Rod Blagojevich became Governor of Illinois. A federal investigation began and a powerful political family tore itself apart.

    Listen — 31:03

  • Part 3: Rod Likes To Run

    Who is Rod Blagojevich? A retail politician who was great at working a room. But his obsession with climbing the ladder brought him down.

    Listen — 39:57

  • Part 4: The Tapes

    The FBI recorded Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich’s phone calls for almost six weeks. What they heard shocked them.

    Listen — 41:25

  • Part 5: Treat Me Nice

    With almost everyone believing that he was guilty, ex-Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich fought back on national TV.

    Listen — 36:21

  • Part 6: I Talk Too Much

    The evidence is presented and President Donald Trump becomes ex-Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s last hope.

    Listen — 47:03

Season 1

  • Update: Commuted

    Under President Donald Trump, there was always a chance Rod Blagojevich would be released early. On Feb. 18, 2020, it finally happened.

    Listen — 4:23