Blagojevich pleads not guilty

Former Gov. Rod Blagojevich pleaded not guilty today in Chicago at his arraignment on new federal charges.

After leaving the courthouse, Blagojevich addressed reporters. He called on prosecutors to publicly play all taped conversations they have relating to his corruption case.

“I challenge the government. If you are on the side of truth and justice, as you say you are, and if this was a crime spree like you claim it was, then don’t hide behind technicalities. Play the tapes,” he said. Blagojevich’s lawyers filed a motion that would allow them to play as much of the tapes at the trial as they choose.

Blagojevich’s trial is set for June.