Illinois State Fair opens, Pritzker talks Blagojevich

Fair parade grand marshal Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Gov. JB Pritzker, and Lt. Gov . Juliana Stratton. (Dave Dahl/WJBC)

 

By Dave Dahl

SPRINFIELD – The big political news of the day threatens to overshadow the opening of the Illinois State Fair.

President Trump told reporters Wednesday night he is leaning toward commuting the prison term of former Gov. Rod Blagojevich. Current Gov. JB Pritzker was asked about it after the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the fair.

“I think President Trump has some pretty important things that he ought to be dealing with, not the least of which are the mindless killings over the last week and gun safety. I wish he’d focus on that.

“Gov. Blagojevich should remain in prison.”

Pritzker emphasized that Blagojevich should serve his full fourteen-year sentence. He’s halfway through.

The fair is supposed to be about agriculture, and Gov. Pritzker brought some news to the proceedings. “Following my official request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, we will be receiving federal disaster assistance to help in the recovery efforts, to help farmers and families get back on their feet.”

The fair runs until Aug. 18.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]

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