Rod Blagojevich, born in Chicago in 1956, is a former American politician who served as the 40th Governor of Illinois from 2003 to 2009. His political career began in the Illinois House of Representatives in 1993, followed by a stint in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1997 to 2003.
Blagojevich’s tenure as governor was marked by significant legislative achievements, including increased funding for education and healthcare reforms. However, his political career was marred by controversy and ultimately derailed by legal troubles.
Rod Blagojevich’s Marriage to Patti Mell
Rod Blagojevich married Patricia, aka Patti Mell in 1990. Patti, the daughter of influential Chicago alderman Richard Mell, was deeply connected to the political landscape of Chicago. Their marriage brought together two powerful political families, with Patti playing a crucial role in supporting her husband’s political ambitions. The couple has two daughters, Amy and Anne.
Blagojevich’s Downfall and Imprisonment
In 2008, Rod Blagojevich was arrested on federal corruption charges, including attempting to sell the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Barack Obama. This scandal led to his impeachment and removal from office in 2009. He was subsequently convicted and sentenced to 14 years in federal prison. Despite his legal troubles, Blagojevich maintained his innocence, and his family, particularly his wife Patti, became vocal advocates for his release.
Patti Blagojevich’s Advocacy and Career
Patti Blagojevich emerged as a staunch defender of her husband, frequently appearing on media outlets to plead his case. She wrote op-eds and used social media to criticize the justice system and those she believed were responsible for her husband’s imprisonment. Her efforts were eventually rewarded when President Donald Trump commuted Rod Blagojevich’s sentence in 2020, leading to his release after nearly eight years in prison.
Patti Blagojevich says Rod’s sentence unusually cruel. pic.twitter.com/c2Diq3mqmo
— Kelly Bauer (@BauerJournalism) August 9, 2016
Professionally, Patti Blagojevich has worn many hats. She worked as a real estate agent and financial advisor before her husband’s legal troubles. After his arrest, she faced significant professional setbacks, including losing her job as a fundraiser for a Chicago homeless agency. She later co-founded a lobbying firm with her father and returned to real estate. Since 2018, Patti has been self-employed as a financial advisor, specializing in retirement and 401(k) planning.
Where are Rod Blagojevich and Patti Now?
Today, Rod Blagojevich is a free man, thanks in large part to his wife’s unwavering support and advocacy. Patti Blagojevich continues to work as a financial advisor and remains an outspoken figure, particularly on issues related to her husband’s case. The family resides in Illinois, where they continue to navigate the aftermath of Rod’s political and legal battles.
The story of Rod and Patti Blagojevich is one of political ambition, scandal, and the enduring bond of a family determined to clear their name and rebuild their lives.
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