Blagojevich trial: Judge declines mistrial

CHICAGO, July 30 (UPI) -- A federal judge in Chicago Friday refused to declare a mistrial in the corruption case against former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

The jury in the case began deliberations Wednesday. The request for a mistrial was made before jury deliberations began but U.S. District Judge James Zagel waited until Friday to turn down the motion.

The judge also denied a jury request for witness transcripts, saying he would reconsider requests for transcripts of specific testimony, WBBM-AM, Chicago, reported.

The jury Thursday sought a transcript of the prosecution's closing arguments, but the judge also denied that request, saying arguments are not evidence.

Blagojevich, who was impeached and removed from office in January 2009, is accused of using his power as governor for personal gain and campaign contributions. He allegedly tried to sell President Barack Obama's former Senate seat to the highest bidder.

Testimony during the nearly 2-month trial indicated Blagojevich lied to federal agents investigating him. His attorneys argued, however, Blagojevich was all talk and never actually followed through on any of his alleged schemes.