WASHINGTON–Lawyers for former Gov. Blagojevich have subpoenaed Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nv.) in to testify at his federal corruption trial, the Chicago Sun-Times has learned.
“Ex-Governor Blagojevich’s counsel contacted Senator Reid’s counsel regarding service of a subpoena related to Mr. Blagojevich’s pending trial, as he has apparently contacted many others. As a routine legal matter, Senator Reid’s attorney accepted service. This action does not mean that Senator Reid will testify at trial,” Reid spokesman Jim Manley told me.
Last month, Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) revealed that he was also subpoenaed by Blagojevich’s defense team. “Given the former Governor’s previous antics regarding this case, it’s no surprise he is casting a wide net – apparently from the President down to dogcatcher,” said Durbin spokesman Joe Shoemaker.
Blagojevich has pled not guilty to charges, including that he tried to sell President Obama’s former Senate seat. Durbin and Reid presumably would be asked to testify to help Blagojevich establish his innocence.
A federal judge turned down a motion by Blagojevich’s defense to subpoena Obama.
Reid will be in Chicago on Friday for fund-raisers, including one hosted by Durbin.
