By Illinois Public Radio/KWMU/AP
Chicago, Ill. – Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich tried to clear up questions Thursday about a check at the center of public scrutiny.
The $1,500 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: "And [I] suggested to my chief of staff to see if he can find something that fits her qualifications."
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.
Beverly Ascaridis has told the Chicago Tribune that federal investigators had questioned her and her husband about the check.
Blagojevich also seemed to muddy the waters about the purpose of the check which his office has said was a birthday gift to one of his daughters. Blagojevich says the check came about the time his other daughter was born and christened.