AG: Blagojevich Shouldn’t Collect Pension

The Illinois Attorney General says Rod Blagojevich shouldn't collect the $65,000 yearly pension he earned as governor.

The Thursday opinion comes a day after Blagojevich was sentenced to 14 years for corruption including that he tried to sell or trade an appointment to the Senate seat vacated by President Barack Obama.

The General Assembly Retirement System board moved last month to block payments to newly convicted ex-officials. Blagojevich turns 55 Saturday.

In her opinion, Attorney General Lisa Madigan says the convictions arose in connection with his service to Illinois and that the former governor repeatedly misused his position for personal benefit.

The opinion has been sent to the board, which makes the final decision.

Blagojevich is eligible for a $15,000 annual pension he earned during his six years in Congress.