Blago Trial to Feature More Testimony of Fundraiser Cari on Thursday

Prosecutors in the corruption trial of former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich will continue to question Joseph Cari Thursday morning. Cari is a former Democratic big-wig who previously pleaded guilty to attempted extortion.

Cari managed fund-raising during Vice President Al Gore's presidential campaign in 2000.

So - Cari testified Wednesday - when he found himself on a private plane headed to New York with Blagojevich back in 2003, the governor asked him about setting up a national fundraising operation.

Cari says, on the flight, Blagojevich told him that, as governor, he could raise big bucks by giving out state contracts, and hitting up those businesses for donations.

Cari told the same story two years ago during the corruption trial of Blagojevich fundraiser Tony Rezko.

On Thursday, Cari will likely detail the extortion attempt he's pleaded guilty to involving a state pension board.

Prosecutors say that was part of a broad conspiracy Governor Blagojevich took part in to enrich his campaign, himself and others.

Cari is cooperating with the government in exchange for a lighter prison sentence for himself.