Two local Illinois state representatives have issued their reactions to Tuesday's verdict in the corruption trial of former Gov. Rod Blagojevich. Jay Hoffman is known as a longtime ally of Blagojevich; Ron Stephens is a longtime critic. Both voted to impeach Blagojevich in January 2009.
Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Collinsville:
"The trial process is complete, the jury has spoken and we should respect their decision. It is now up to the prosecution to determine the next step. When I talked [to] the people of Illinois they want us to do our job, move forward, get our fiscal house in order and create jobs and opportunities for people."
Rep. Ron Stephens, R-Greenville:
"I am not surprised the nightmare of Rod Blagojevich continues to plague our state. Until that nightmare is over, we're forced to continue to be a national embarrassment and a symbol of political corruption."
This article originally appeared in the St. Louis Beacon.
