They were the people who were hired to advise the governor and help him push his agenda. Some were young with promising futures. But it all came crashing down as the Blagojevich Administration imploded.
Many were able to move on and have success elsewhere. Sheila Nix, who headed communications for Blagojevich for a time, went on to work with U2's Bono and his charitable efforts. She's now Chief of Staff for Jill Biden, wife of the vice president.
Bradley Tusk, who was Deputy Governor, has done political and business consulting and is a major player in New York.
But not everyone wound up with such a happy ending.
David Mendell is a freelance writer and author based in Chicago. He tracked down many who were part of the inner circle and reported on them for the Better Government Association.
Blagojevich is serving a 14 year prison term in a federal facility in Colorado. After the Supreme Court tossed some of his convictions, he's hoping for a reduced sentence. A court hearing is set for Tuesday, August 9.
