CHICAGO — In a landmark ruling, a Chicago Democrat who played a pivotal role in shaping Illinois’ political landscape was convicted on multiple charges, including conspiracy, bribery, and wire fraud, during a prominent trial on Wednesday. Michael Madigan, formerly the longest-serving legislative leader in U.S. history, was held responsible for ten counts while jurors acquitted him of seven. They were unable to reach a verdict on six other charges, which included a significant racketeering conspiracy accusation, after extensive deliberations that spanned over ten days.
Acting U.S. Attorney Morris Pasqual emphasized the importance of the verdict, categorizing it as a “historic” conviction within the realm of public corruption cases tried in Chicago. Pasqual asserted that the residents of Illinois deserve a government that they can trust, stating that Madigan repeatedly violated this trust through his actions.
Upon conclusion of the trial, Madigan, who took everyone by surprise with his decision to testify and strongly refute the accusations against him, left the courthouse without addressing the media as cameras captured his exit amid falling snow, accompanied by his legal team.
Madigan’s conviction stems from his time as a dominant figure in Illinois politics, where he served as Speaker for over thirty years and was the leader of the Democratic Party in the state. The charges against him were linked to schemes involving ComEd, the state’s largest utility, and efforts to secure a job for a Chicago alderman on a state board. He was acquitted on charges related to a project concerning an apartment, a parking lot in Chicago’s Chinatown, and legislation for AT&T. However, federal prosecutors have yet to announce if they will pursue a retrial on the counts where jurors were unable to reach a consensus. No date has been established for sentencing, but at 82 years old, Madigan could face substantial prison time, given that the wire fraud charges alone could result in a maximum of 20 years in prison. He is also under threat of related forfeiture actions.
The indictment outlined 23 charges, alleging that Madigan misused his political influence to facilitate legislation that benefitted utility companies in exchange for kickbacks, contracts, and jobs for his supporters. Additionally, he was accused of receiving personal benefits from legal work redirected to his law firm inappropriately.
During the closing arguments, Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia Schwartz expressed, “Madigan abused the tremendous power he wielded time and again.” In contrast, Madigan described himself in his testimony as a public servant who aimed to assist those who sought help.
The trial, which commenced in October, witnessed the testimony of over 60 witnesses, including business figures and former state officials. Prosecutors provided compelling evidence through photographs, recordings, and transcripts, with core elements of their case stemming from hours of video and phone conversations that were secretly recorded by a former alderman who became an FBI informant. The proceedings unveiled how Madigan, known for his minimal use of technology, conducted affairs behind closed doors, integrating his political and legal roles during meetings that included both elected officials and business associates.
While portraying his commitment to public service, Madigan faced intense questioning from federal prosecutors regarding his recorded comments, particularly one where he remarked humorously about some of his supporters profiting significantly.
Having stepped down from office in 2021 amid an ongoing investigation, Madigan was formally indicted the following year. Many members of his family, including his daughter Lisa Madigan, were present at the trial. Lisa Madigan served as Illinois attorney general for four terms before choosing not to seek reelection in 2018.
Much of the trial’s evidence had already been discussed in previous court sessions, as a broader investigation into public corruption within Illinois has led to convictions of various elected officials, including Madigan’s former chief of staff. In reaction to the verdict, leading state representatives highlighted the necessity of eradicating corruption. Illinois Senate President Don Harmon reflected on the trial’s outcome, noting that it marks the end of a troubling chapter in the state’s history, emphasizing that corrupt practices for personal gain cannot be tolerated.
Michael Madigan, who started his legislative career in 1970, maintained his role as speaker from 1983 until 2021, with the exception of a two-year period during Republican control. He had a significant impact on determining legislative agendas, overseeing political map drawing, and managing various campaign funds. Madigan’s longtime associate, Michael McClain, stood trial alongside him but jurors could not agree on any of the charges against McClain, who prosecutors referred to as Madigan’s “mouthpiece.” McClain, formerly a state legislator and lobbyist, had previously been convicted of related bribery charges involving ComEd.
McClain’s defense team viewed the hung jury as a victory, with attorney Patrick Cotter asserting, “He was an innocent man when he walked in, and he’s walking out an innocent man.”
