Deputy Gov. Nix leaving Blagojevich administration

SPRINGFIELD -- Deputy Gov. Sheila Nix says she's proud of the work she and Gov. Rod Blagojevich have done to help expand health care options in Illinois.

Nix, a graduate of Palatine High School, is leaving her post this week after nearly four years with the administration. She wants to spend more time with family before finding another job.

Blagojevich on Monday named Bob Greenlee to replace Nix as deputy governor.

Nix says she's disappointed state lawmakers haven't backed the governor's efforts to offer health care coverage to all Illinoisans.

She expects Blagojevich to continue to fight for his priorities and doesn't see him being weakened by allegations made in the recent federal trial of top fundraiser Tony Rezko.

She says the Rezko conviction is "not a distraction" for the administration.