McLean County Times

A federal jury in Chicago has found former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan guilty of corruption charges. Madigan was a significant political figure in Illinois until his downfall in 2021. He served as Speaker of the House for 35 years, alongside roles as a Chicago ward boss and state Democratic Party chairman.

During his tenure, Madigan wielded considerable influence over legislative processes, determining which bills would progress and which would not. At the trial, federal prosecutors presented extensive evidence highlighting Madigan's connections with lobbyists and special interests who sought to gain his favor and supported his pursuit of power.

House Republicans have been advocating for ethics reforms to address issues in Springfield for years. However, these efforts were consistently blocked by Madigan and continue to face obstacles even after his departure from office. There is a call for urgent action to implement substantial ethics reform to address ongoing concerns within state government.

"Madigan was the most powerful politician in Illinois until his fall in 2021."

"For 35 years Madigan was Speaker of the House, in addition to his roles as a Chicago ward boss and state Democratic Party chairman."

"He ruled Springfield with an iron fist, deciding which legislation would pass and which would never see the light of day."

"At his trial, federal prosecutors spent weeks producing evidence of Madigan’s cozy relationship with lobbyists and special interests who tried to curry his favor and who fed his quest for ever more power."

"For years House Republicans have been introducing ethics reforms to clean up Springfield."

"Madigan blocked them every year, and unfortunately that trend has continued even with him out of office."

"There should be no more delays in passing real, meaningful ethics reform and cleaning up the mess in state government."