SE Illinois News

The trial of former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan has reached its third month at the Dirksen Federal Building in Chicago. Federal prosecutors have been presenting evidence over the past eight weeks, aiming to prove that Madigan was involved in racketeering and bribery conspiracy. Witnesses called to testify include elected officials from various levels of government, as well as family members and business leaders.

Former Chicago Alderman Danny Solis recently concluded his testimony after spending 21 hours on the stand over six days. Solis, who previously served as Chairman of the City of Chicago’s Zoning Committee, recorded conversations with Madigan in which business for Madigan’s law firm was discussed.

Madigan was indicted in March 2022 on charges including racketeering, bribery, and official misconduct. These charges are related to an alleged bribery scheme involving Commonwealth Edison, Illinois' largest utility company. Madigan's political career spanned from 1971 to 2021, during which he held the position of Speaker for nearly all those years.

In response to the trial, Senate Republicans have proposed several pieces of legislation aimed at implementing ethics reforms to prevent similar situations in the future. The trial is expected to continue into next year.