Federal agents arrested Illinois State Rep. Derrick Smith (D-Chicago) today for allegedly taking a $7,000 bribe -- a bribe concocted by a former Smith employee who collaborated with FBI agents and the U.S. Attorney's office. Smith apparently took the $7,000 bribe in exchange for writing a letter of recommendation to the state that the employee's contact at a day care center get a $50,000 grant.

The day care center name the ex-employee gave Smith is, in fact, a real day care center. But federal investigators fabricated the center's grant request, and the day care center contact.

Smith was scheduled to appear in court this afternoon, exactly a week before he faces off against challenger Tom Swiss in the 10th District Democratic primary race. Smith was appointed State Rep. last year, and there's no word yet on whether he will continue his campaign.