January 9, 2009 Illinois House votes to impeach Gov. Blagojevich Play video

(NECN: Springfield, IL) - The Illinois House voted this morning to impeach Governor Rod Blagojevich. The action sets the stage for a Senate trial on whether he should be thrown out of office for corruption and abuse of power.

House members found evidence that the two-term Democrat had abused his power, including improperly spending tax money, adopting programs without legislative approval and violating state hiring laws. He's denied wrongdoing.

The House began impeachment proceedings after federal authorities arrested Blagojevich Dec. 9. He's accused, among other things, of attempting to sell an appointment to fill President-elect Barack Obama's vacant U.S. Senate seat for political favors.

*In this video clip, you will hear from Rep. Barbara Flynn Currie, the Impeachment Committee chair.

NOTE: Video from Illinois Information Service.