David Friess | Contributed photo
David Friess | Contributed photo
Newly-elected state Rep. David Friess is hoping to see House Speaker Mike Madigan vanish right before his eyes.
“Madigan needs to step down as Speaker, step down as head of the Democratic Party and resign from the state legislature,” Friess told SE Illinois News of the embattled lawmaker. “As state representative, I will work tirelessly to pass ethics reform and instill fiscal discipline so Illinois families can once again trust our state government to act in their interests.”
With as many as 18 democratic lawmakers now insisting they have no intentions of supporting any reelection effort, Madigan days appear numbered after roughly four decades of reigning in Springfield.
| File Photo
The state’s longest tenured lawmaker, he now finds himself at the center of the still unfolding ComEd pay-for-play probe where it’s alleged all the perks were steered to him through associates in exchange for favorable legislation.
More recently, four individuals with close ties to Madigan were indicted in connection with the scheme, including longtime pal and local lobbyist Michael McClain, who counts bribery among the charges he faces.
Friess, who knocked off incumbent state Rep. Nathan Reitz earlier this month in the 116th District with nearly 65% of the vote, argues showing Madigan the door is only the start to the complete overhaul that’s needed in Springfield.
“Simply having another leader as House Speaker will not be enough to start the reform movement that is needed,” said Friess.
Even with Madigan now seemingly on the ropes, Friess stated he doesn’t expect closing the deal to come easily.
“After nearly 40 years in power, I cannot imagine he will go quietly,” said Friess, “I absolutely believe the time for Madigan to go is now here.”
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