Now this one is hard to believe.

new study from Harvard University’s Center for Ethics shows that Kentucky and New Jersey have a worse ranking than Illinois in the "legal corruption" category for the executive branch.

"We define legal corruption as the political gains in the form of campaign contributions or endorsements by a government official, in exchange for providing specific benefits to private individuals or groups, be it by explicit or implicit understanding."

Well, sure, but what about illegal corruption. All those governors in prison have to count for something, right?

Scott Olson, Getty Images
Governor Rod Blagojevich
Scott Olson, Getty Images
Governor Rod Blagojevich
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The survey takes a look at Illinois' legislative branch and says illegal corruption is "very common." In fact, a recent study showed that corruption in Illinois (legal and illegal)  costs each taxpayer more than $1,300 a year.

Also bringing up the rear in this study: Pennsylvania and New Mexico.

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