Democrats catch break with Blagojevich trial’s early end, no big-name witnesses

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Democrats catch break with trial’s early end

CHICAGO — Jurors in the Rod Blagojevich case are out of sight deciding the fate of the former Illinois governor in a corruption trial that could have been unpleasant for Democrats.

A group of President Barack Obama’s allies had been subpoenaed by the defense as the party was gearing up for tough elections. The list included White House chief of staff Rahm Emanuel and Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, who is running for Obama’s old Senate seat that Blagojevich is accused of trying to sell.

Democrats were spared potentially embarrassing testimony and the trial could wrap up well before the fall campaign. Some observers say Blagojevich, who has pleaded not guilty, may no longer be defined primarily as a Democratic.

But Republicans are likely to keep reminding voters of it.