Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich tried to clear up questions today about a check at the center of public scrutiny.

The $1,500 check was given to Blagojevich’s daughter by long-time family friend Michael Ascaridis.

Blagojevich got the check soon after Ascardis’s wife got a job with the state.

Blagojevich denies any connection between the two, but he says he did know she had applied for a job.

“Yes, and suggested to my chief of staff to see if he can find something that fits her qualifications,” he says.

Blagojevich says he disclosed the check and followed the law.

He also says he put the cash in a mutual fund to go toward his daughter’s college education.