SE Illinois News

Republican state Rep. Darren Bailey is finally starting to believe the hype.

“I really believe the end for Mike Madigan is finally here,” Bailey told the SE Illinois News. 

“You’ve already got 18 democratic lawmakers saying they won’t vote for his reelection as House Speaker. I thought it was show for election season, but so far they’re sticking to their word. I think that closes the door on the guy that has own Illinois politics for far too long," said Bailey. 

Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan, who is currently under investigation in an ongoing federal correction probe | File Photo

The state’s longest tenured lawmaker, Madigan now finds himself at the center of a still unfolding federal corruption probe involving ComEd and a pay-for-play scheme where all the perks were allegedly steered to him in exchange for favorable legislation.

More recently, four Madigan associates were indicted in connection with the scheme, including longtime pal and local lobbyist Michael McClain, who counts bribery among the charges he faces.

Still, Bailey said he doesn’t expect Madigan to go quietly and is convinced he is continuing to work behind the scenes to try to turn things back in his favor.

“The bargaining season has already begun,” said Bailey, “I’m sure Mike Madigan is still being Mike Madigan.”

With the stakes being as high as they are, Bailey stated he is hoping voters will do their part by holding all the democratic lawmakers who have pledged to stand up to Madigan to the word.

“With Madigan out, we’re one step closer to restoring Illinois to where it needs to be,” said Bailey, “I hope these lawmakers constituency calls them out and holds them accountable. We really need voters to stay engaged. It’s no accident or coincidence that 18 democrats are now saying they will no longer support Madigan. That’s because they’re hearing from their constituency and the message is they’ve has enough of Mike Madigan.”