chris kelly and tony rezko could generate big bucks. they were fund-raisers. they were donors. know, let's just call 'em what they were. they were influence peddlers. they wound up being able to shake the bushes here and help rod raise money. they promised access and favors if blagojevich won, and they got results. where dick mell's good old boys would fetch $2,000 at a time, kelly and rezko would shake loose 50 grand. all that money plus rod's appeal to voters who had felt ignored by the entrenched chicago political dynasties-- well, it proved to be an unstoppable combination. he ran on some things that were uniquely important to black people. healthcare for kids is a good idea. when he said, "free rides for seniors on public transportation," that resonated with black people specifically. blagojevich became governor in 2003. -congratulations, governor. -thank you. may god bless you. [cheers and applause] how do you view your-- your time as governor apart from the scandals? how do i say this in a way where i don't sound like a guy without any humility? but i truly believe i was