SE Illinois News

Republican state House candidate David Friess frets everything that’s happened in the aftermath of longtime House Speaker Mike Madigan being implicated in an ongoing federal corruption probe screams for the need for change in Springfield.

“The fact that Madigan received more than $500,000 in campaign contributions in one day following the announcement of the scandal is just an indication of how some expect politics to be run in Springfield and Chicago,” Friess told the SE Illinois News. “Instead of distancing themselves from Speaker Madigan, they believe it is business as usual.”

The longest-running lawmaker in Illinois, Madigan now stands as a central figure in a federal investigation involving utility giant ComEd and a pay-for-play scheme. As chair of at least four political groups, he is now reported to have nearly $23 million in his political coffers, at least partly accounting for the informal title he holds in the eyes of many as the most powerful man in state politics.

“If you are a Democrat in Illinois, and you are running for election or re-election, you will not receive a dime in campaign contributions from the funds Madigan controls unless you have Madigan's blessing,” added Friess, who is running against incumbent state Rep. Nathan Reitz (D-Steeleville) in the 116th District. “He uses those funds to pressure and bully members of his own party to support and vote for legislation he supports.”

Several media outlets have reported at least some of his vast political warchest has gone to him legally defending himself and his organization, including a sexual harassment allegation that was ultimately settled.

Friess argues enough is enough.

“Politicians should not be allowed to use campaign funds to pay legal bills related to allegations of criminal misconduct or corruption related to their official duties,” he said. “I am running to take away Madigan's power.”