An Open Letter From Bob Ney To Rod Blagojevich

Dear Rod,

I understand the trauma, frustration and pain that public figures experience while their legal battles play out under a daily microscope.

Believe me, I know firsthand what it’s like living through the American Justice System.

Now that you have been convicted, I’m sure that you and your family are experiencing a myriad of emotions over what happens next…

I write this letter in all sincerity, which is easy to do as I served with you. I always respected your work in the House, and also your cordial, friendly and outgoing attitude that you displayed toward me during your tenure in Washington.

Although our cases are different, with you having been put on trial and me entering a plea, we do share some things in common. Therefore I hope that it is appropriate for me to lend some thoughts…

First, know that people will tend to remember you for the mistakes you’ve made, rather than the wonderful things you achieved during your time in office. That’s been my experience, though make no mistake, I don’t begrudge folks for their feelings about me. As you get set to enter the next phase of your life, you must remember that you accomplished a lot as a Congressman and as Governor.

Nonetheless, you will be judged by both people you know, and don’t know, and their opinions of you will vary based on what they believe you did and how they feel you should be punished. And then there’s the media. As you’re well aware, the chatter class is going to drag you through the mud and the late-night hosts will make you the punchline to all their jokes. But just remember, no matter how dark you think things are going to get, there is life after all of this. Focusing on your friends and family will allow you to pull through the upcoming difficult times.

You have a wonderful wife and family, I know you will always keep them in mind as they cope with your situation. They will give you the strength to move through this.

Personally, I remember feeling helpless during my time in prison. I even felt at times like I was losing my grip on sanity. But thanks to the support of my family, self-help books, and being able to tutor those in prison who were less fortunate than me, I found strength and happiness.

During this time I also talked to several people, but the one who stood out to me the most was Webb Hubbell. My friend Ellen Ratner made me sit down with Webb after my conviction, and I talked to him about life after Morgantown Federal. Most importantly, we talked about making it through the tough times, one day at a time. Rod, it’s important to find someone to talk to who can give you the same strength to keep going both before, during, and after.

As I mentioned earlier, there is life after all of this. I can tell you this because despite what I went through, my life today is full; I work for Ellen Ratner at Talk Radio News Service, run a non-profit foundation called Mending Minds which deals with meditation to help folks who suffer from PTSD and substance abuse, and most importantly, I’m close with my family, which is the most important part of my new life.

The last thing I’ll say is this; Just as there are those who wish you the worst, there are many who wish you the best. Rod, you are a person of strength, intelligence and humor. May you utilize all of these characteristics to the best of your God given ability.

If I can be of help to you or your family in any way, please let me know.

From my family to yours, and from me to you,

God Bless, stay strong, and remember, this is a country of second chances

Sincerely,

Bob Ney