Minutes after the prosecution rested, Rod Blagojevich attorney Sheldon Sorosky asked if the defense could begin its case next Wednesday instead of Monday.

The reason: "A number of these witnesses are people of some prominence and activities," Sorosky said without disclosing who they were. Sorosky said he believes the defense case could take just three days.

Judge James Zagel denied the request, saying the case will resume Monday.

Rahm Emanuel was asked Thursday if he or his attorney had been contacted by the Blagojevich defense team about testifying, Emanuel said: "Not to my knowledge."

Prosecutor Reid Schar said the prosecution could protest some defense witnesses but wouldn't fight the defense recalling any government witness.