SPRINGFIELD – There are a few weeks left until the Rod Blagojevich trial is scheduled to begin on June 3rd. In a time when Illinois is facing a major budget deficit, the trial might have an effect on how voters view state politics, some experts say.

Patrick Collins, the lead prosecutor in George Ryan’s trial, says the state is going through “unprecedented times” with the Blagojevich trial coming up and there has been major change in Illinois politics since the Ryan trial and conviction.

051810Collins1 :15 …change Illinois politics.

Roosevelt University Political Science Professor Paul Green says the trial is going to affect the way people view politicians in the upcoming elections and leave a “bad taste” in their mouths.

He says the trial falls at a perfect time for politicians campaigning this fall.

051810Green3 :17 …in the campaign.

Green says the trial may help Republicans campaigning more, but Collins disagrees.