Blagojevich says 'it's painful' to hear FBI tapes

[July 09, 2010]  CHICAGO (AP) -- Rod Blagojevich says listening to FBI wiretap recordings at his corruption trial has been difficult.

The tapes of his conversations have been at the core of the prosecution's attempt to show the former Illinois governor tried to use his power for personal gain. He has been heard spewing profanities, arguing with his wife and often asking about how much money he can make in one job or another.

As he headed back to court Thursday, a spectator asked if it was hard to sit and listen to the hours of recordings. He nodded and said, "Yes, it's painful." He also said his comments on the tapes are being taken out of context.

Blagojevich has pleaded not guilty to charges including scheming to sell or trade the appointment to President Barack Obama's old Senate seat.

[Associated Press]

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