By AP/St. Louis Public Radio
Chicago, Il – It promises to be a dramatic day in the corruption trial of former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich.
Early today, lawyers will use their objections to narrow down the pool of jurors and seat a jury, then prosecutors and defense attorneys will go straight into opening statements.
Defense attorney Sam Adam Jr. is known for his theatrical, and successful, defense of R&B star R. Kelly two years ago. He will deliver the opening for the former governor of Illinois.
Judge James Zagel has told Adam he can have only an hour and 45 minutes for his statement. Lead prosecutor Reid Schar warned he will be on watch for any remarks the judge has ruled out of bounds.
Blagojevich has pleaded not guilty to trying to sell or trade President Barack Obama's former Senate seat, among other things.