Governor not donating to candidates

SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. Rod Blagojevich has told the Board of Elections he is not giving out campaign cash to help other candidates or support or oppose policy issues on the ballot.

Attorney General Lisa Madigan and Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, who could challenge for governor in 2010, also turned in non-participation reports this week.

Blagojevich campaign spokesman Doug Scofield said Wednesday the governor simply is not giving money to other candidates this fall.

When Blagojevich won in 2002 and was re-elected in 2006, he became one of Illinois' most prolific political fundraisers. However, that ability slipped as his popularity has plummeted.

University of Illinois at Springfield political science professor Kent Redfield said the governor's decision is an indication his unpopularity make fellow politicians want to avoid him.

Scofield said the governor continues to raise and spend money, without providing details.