Rod Blagojevich is one of the most controversial political figures in modern American history. Once the Governor of Illinois, he rose to national attention after being charged with corruption — including attempting to sell Barack Obama’s Senate seat.
From a powerful political leader to a convicted felon and now a media personality, his life story is full of twists, scandal, and unexpected comebacks. Even after his release from prison, interest in Rod Blagojevich remains high as people wonder what he is doing today and what his future holds.
Rod Blagojevich Bio Table
| Full Name | Rod R. Blagojevich |
|---|---|
| Born | December 10, 1956 |
| Age (2025) | 68 Years |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Profession | Former Governor, Author, Media Personality |
| Political Party | Democratic (former) |
| Spouse | Patricia “Patti” Blagojevich |
| Children | 2 daughters |
| Net Worth 2025 | Approx. $100,000 – $500,000 |
| Years in Office | 2003–2009 |
| Prison Sentence | 14 years (served 8) |
| Released | 2020 (Sentence commuted by Donald Trump) |
Early Life & Education
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Rod Blagojevich was born in a working-class Serbian immigrant family in Chicago. His father worked in a steel plant, and his mother was a ticket clerk.
He attended the University of Tampa and later earned his law degree from Pepperdine University School of Law. Before entering politics, he worked as a lawyer and prosecutor.
Political Career: Rise to Power
U.S. Congress
Blagojevich first gained national visibility when he served as a Congressman representing Illinois’ 5th district from 1997 to 2003.
Governor of Illinois
In 2003, he became the 40th Governor of Illinois — the first Democrat elected to that office in decades.
During his time as governor, he focused on:
- Free healthcare programs
- Public education funding
- Labor union support
His image was that of a “working-class Democrat,” but things would soon fall apart.
Corruption Scandal & Impeachment
In 2008, federal prosecutors accused Blagojevich of trying to sell Barack Obama’s vacant Senate seat after Obama won the presidency.
He was:
- Arrested
- Impeached
- Removed from office
- Convicted on corruption charges
He received 14 years in federal prison.
Trump Sentence Commutation
In February 2020, President Donald Trump commuted his sentence, releasing him after 8 years behind bars.
Blagojevich has since referred to himself as a “Trumpocrat.”
Rod Blagojevich Net Worth 2025
Rod Blagojevich’s estimated net worth in 2025 is between $100,000 and $500,000.
Before prison, he earned:
- $150,000+ annual salary as governor
- Paid speeches and consulting
- Pension rights (later suspended)
Due to lawsuits, legal bills, and loss of pension benefits, his financial status declined sharply.
Rod Blagojevich Pension (Update)
Illinois stripped him of his state pension after his conviction.
His wife Patti, however, still receives a state pension from her past employment — helping support the family.
What Is Rod Blagojevich Doing Today (2025)?
After being released, Blagojevich became:
- A political commentator
- A podcast host
- A YouTube content creator
- Occasional conservative media guest
He frequently speaks about:
- Prison reform
- Corruption in politics
- His personal story
Rod Blagojevich Wife & Family
Rod is married to Patricia “Patti” Blagojevich, who has stood by him publicly throughout his trials and imprisonment.
They have two daughters, Annie and Amy.
The family lives in Chicago and largely avoids mainstream politics, although Rod is active in media.
Rod Blagojevich Social Media Table
| Platform | Profile Link |
|---|---|
| Twitter (X) | https://twitter.com/Blagojevich |
| YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@RodBlagojevich |
| Website | https://www.rodblagojevich.com |
Rod Blagojevich in Media
- Appeared on Celebrity Apprentice before prison
- Frequently appears on conservative talk shows
- Runs YouTube commentary videos about U.S. politics
- Published memoirs about his case
interesting Facts
- He once worked as an amateur boxer
- Known for his signature thick hair and loud personality
- Claims his trial was politically motivated
- Calls himself a “wronged governor”
- One of the few Democrats supported publicly by Trump
FAQs
1. What is Rod Blagojevich’s net worth in 2025?
Between $100K – $500K, significantly lower than before prison.
2. Is Rod Blagojevich still in politics?
No, he is legally banned from holding public office.
3. Why did Trump free Rod Blagojevich?
Trump called his 14-year sentence “excessive and unfair,” and commuted it in 2020.
4. Does Rod Blagojevich still get a pension?
No — his pension was revoked, but his wife still receives one.
5. What is Rod Blagojevich doing now?
He creates online content, speaks about his legal case, and appears in political media.
Conclusion
Rod Blagojevich’s story is one of dramatic rise, public downfall, and controversial redemption. Once a governor, now a political outsider, he remains a highly recognizable figure.
Whether people see him as a victim of unfair prosecution or the face of political corruption, one thing is certain — Rod Blagojevich continues to stay in the public conversation, even in 2025.
