Former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich’s attempt to return to public life has hit a roadblock as a federal judge dismissed his lawsuit with a whimsical nod to Dr. Seuss. Blagojevich, known for his colorful quotes and political antics, found himself on the receiving end of a poetic dismissal from U.S. District Court Judge Steven Seeger.
Blagojevich, who was impeached and removed from office in 2009 before serving time in federal prison for political crimes, filed a lawsuit to reverse a ban that prevents him from holding public office again. However, Judge Seeger shut down his claims one by one and ultimately quoted Dr. Seuss’ book, “Marvin K. Mooney Will You Please Go Now!” to suggest that Blagojevich should simply “go.”
The former governor’s spokesperson, Mark Vargas, expressed that the ruling was not surprising and emphasized that the people should have the right to choose their representatives, not federal judges or establishment politicians. Blagojevich, who was known for quoting Greek philosophers and Roman statesmen during his time in office, represented himself in the lawsuit filed in 2021.
Despite his efforts, the judge pointed out various legal issues with the lawsuit, ultimately leading to its dismissal. Blagojevich’s future political aspirations remain uncertain, as the judge highlighted that a legal claim is not valid if it depends on contingent future events.
In the end, Judge Seeger concluded that Blagojevich’s case started with a bang but ended with a whimper, stating, “He wants back. But he’s already gone. Case dismissed.” The former governor, who once declared, “I’m back,” may need to reconsider his next steps in the political arena.
