Blagojevich Lawyer: Ex-Governor’s Actions Were Crimes

Rod Blagojevich's attorneys are admitting for the first time that the former Illinois governor is guilty of corruption.

But attorney Sheldon Sorosky argued Tuesday at Blagojevich's sentencing hearing that the prison term requested by prosecutors is too harsh.

Blagojevich had publicly maintained his innocence through two trials since his arrest three years ago. Sorosky told Judge James Zagel that it was illegal for the former governor to ask for a job for himself in exchange for his naming of a replacement for President Obama in the U.S. Senate.

He made the same argument when he talked about the other crimes for which the former governor was convicted.

But he said none of Blagojevich's actions merit the 15-to-20 year sentence recommended by prosecutors.