CHICAGO — In a significant verdict from a corruption trial, Michael Madigan, a prominent Chicago Democrat and the longest-serving legislative leader in U.S. history, was found guilty of conspiracy, bribery, and wire fraud on Wednesday. The ruling came after a split decision from jurors, who convicted him on ten counts while acquitting him of seven others. The jury was unable to reach a conclusion on six additional counts, including a key racketeering conspiracy charge, following over 10 days of deliberations.
Acting U.S. Attorney Morris Pasqual described the conviction as “historic,” ranking it among the most serious public corruption cases handled in Chicago’s federal court system. He emphasized the importance of trust in government, stating, “Michael Madigan breached and violated that trust over and over again,” highlighting the gravity of the situation for Illinois residents.
Madigan, who took the witness stand in a surprising move for someone of his stature—defending himself against all allegations—left the courthouse without speaking to the media as he was captured by cameras moving through the snow with his legal team. A prominent figure in Illinois’ political landscape for over three decades, Madigan faced charges related to his involvement with the state’s largest utility, ComEd, as well as his attempts to secure a state board position for a Chicago alderman. The jury acquitted him or was deadlocked on charges associated with a real estate project and other local issues.
Federal prosecutors have yet to decide whether to pursue a retrial on the charges where the jury could not reach a decision. Madigan’s sentencing is expected to follow a separate trial regarding forfeiture, as the legal proceedings continue. He had been indicted on 23 counts, accused of leveraging his power to manipulate legislation that benefited utility firms, which in return provided kickbacks and employment opportunities to his affiliates. Additionally, he was said to have improperly gained from work funneled to his law firm.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia Schwartz remarked during closing statements that Madigan repeatedly misused his considerable influence. In stark contrast, Madigan defended his actions by claiming he always intended to assist those who sought his help, showcasing a more relatable persona during his testimony.
The trial, which commenced in October, presented over 60 witnesses, including various public figures, business professionals, and previous state lawmakers. Evidence included a mix of photographs, transcripts, and audio recordings that detailed the alleged corruption schemes. Much of the prosecution’s narrative was sustained through hours of secretly recorded conversations made by a former Chicago alderman-turned-FBI informant, providing insight into Madigan’s operations that often blurred the lines between his political and legal duties.
Madigan, who had a storied career that included representing a district near Chicago’s Midway International Airport and presiding as a formidable political force, portrayed himself in court as a dedicated public servant. However, his testimony was scrutinized under cross-examination, where prosecutors confronted him with statements from the recorded interactions, including moments where he appeared to downplay the misconduct of his associates.
Having resigned from political office in 2021 amidst ongoing investigations, Madigan was indicted the following year. Throughout the trial, he maintained a focused presence, taking notes, with family members, including his daughter Lisa Madigan, in attendance—she is a former Illinois attorney general who chose not to seek re-election in 2018.
The public corruption investigation that has plagued Illinois has already led to several convictions of other officials, along with Madigan’s former chief of staff. State leadership remarked that the verdict serves as a pivotal reminder that corrupt practices must not be tolerated. Illinois Senate President Don Harmon commented that the jury’s decision marks an end to a troubling chapter in the state’s political history, underscoring the need for integrity in governance.
Alongside Madigan stood his longtime associate Michael McClain, who prosecutors identified as his “mouthpiece.” However, jurors remained deadlocked on all counts related to McClain. Having previously been found guilty last year in a separate bribery conspiracy case involving ComEd, McClain’s legal representatives viewed the deadlocked verdict as a positive outcome, asserting that he entered the trial as an innocent man and left with that status intact.
