Illinois has sent more of their liberal Gov's to State and federal prison than any other state in the union.
Otto Kerner Dem — Governor from 1961-1968. Resigned to become judge, then was convicted of bribery related to his tenure as governor. Sentenced to three years in prison.
Dan Walker Dem — Governor from 1973-1977. Pleaded guilty to bank fraud and other charges in 1987 related to his business activities after leaving office. Spent just over a year and a half in federal prison.
George Ryan Reb— Governor from 1999 through 2003. After leaving office, was convicted of racketeering for actions as governor and secretary of state. In November 2007, began serving 6 1/2 years in federal prison.
Rod Blagojevich Dem— Governor from 2003 through 2009, when he became the first Illinois governor in history to be impeached. Convicted of numerous corruption charges Monday, including allegations that he tried to sell or trade President Barack Obama's old Senate seat.
Honorable Mention:
William G. Stratton REP— Governor from 1953-1961. Indicted after leaving office on income-tax evasion charges but was acquitted.
William G. Stratton REP— Governor from 1953-1961. Indicted after leaving office on income-tax evasion charges but was acquitted.
Lennington Small REP— Governor from 1921-1929. Indicted while in office on embezzlement charges but was acquitted.
Joel Matteson DEM— Governor from 1853-1857. After leaving office, a Sangamon County court ruled that he owed the state more than $253,000 in connection with a scheme to pay government contractors. His property was sold at auction.
