Blagojevich takes stand to testify in own defense

CHICAGO (AP) — Ousted Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich is testifying at his corruption retrial in Chicago.

Blagojevich’s attorneys called him to the stand late this morning. He’s introduced himself by telling jurors “I used to be your governor” and “I’m here today to tell you the truth.”

Blagojevich could be a formidable witness if he’s well prepared and maintains his cool. He’s sure to face blistering cross-examination from prosecutors who are likely to replay FBI wiretaps that captured his blunt, profanity-laced talk.

Blagojevich’s attorneys didn’t call any witnesses during his first trial last year. That jury deadlocked on 23 of 24 counts, including allegations that Blagojevich tried to sell or trade President Barack Obama’s former U.S. Senate seat.