Former Illinois Speaker Michael Madigan Guilty on 10 Charges

Michael Madigan’s political career has ended in conviction after a jury found the former Illinois House Speaker guilty on multiple corruption-related charges.

Madigan, a real estate attorney who served in the Illinois House of Representatives for 50 years, was convicted Wednesday on 10 of 23 counts in his federal corruption trial, the Chicago Tribune reported. The verdict marked the conclusion of a high-profile trial that spanned four months.

Prosecutors argued that Madigan had abused his position to funnel political favors and lucrative contracts to allies and associates in exchange for support on legislation and personal gain. Central to the prosecution’s case were wiretap recordings and testimonies from key witnesses, including Daniel Solis, a former alderman-turned-FBI mole.

The trial revealed the depth of Madigan’s influence in Springfield, where he allegedly orchestrated deals with utility companies like ComEd and AT&T Illinois. Evidence presented in court included “do-nothing” consulting contracts for Madigan’s associates, with some recipients reportedly paid millions for little to no work.

Madigan’s defense attorneys argued that the payments were not bribes but rather part of legitimate lobbying efforts. They also questioned the reliability of Solis’ testimony, alleging the informant has a checkered past.

The conviction carries significant consequences for Madigan, with each guilty charge potentially resulting in up to 20 years in prison.

The trial is the culmination of a years-long federal investigation, which had already led to the indictment of several of Madigan’s allies. Mike McClain, a lobbyist and Madigan’s co-defendant, was accused of channeling payments to Madigan’s associates. However, the jury could not reach a verdict on the charges, resulting in McClain walking free.

Former state representative Ed Acevedo was accused of receiving payments from ComEd in exchange for helping Madigan secure political influence in legislation benefiting the utility company.

— Andrew Terrell