In a surprising move, the judge overseeing the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan instructed the jury on Monday to disregard all testimony from Illinois state Rep. Bob Rita, D-Blue Island. Judge John Robert Blakey gave no explanation for the decision, despite Rita’s brief testimony on October 24.
Rita’s sudden removal from the case leaves questions unanswered. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amar Bhachu previously hinted at undisclosed issues, stating there were “some things in play” regarding Rita’s involvement.
Rita had been a notable figure in related proceedings. During the March 2023 trial of four former ComEd executives and lobbyists, Rita described Madigan’s unchecked influence over committee assignments, bill progression, and political fortunes. He testified that Madigan maintained power “through fear and intimidation” and that opposing Madigan made election success as a Democrat in Illinois “very, very difficult.”
Rita also recounted how dissenters faced political retaliation. He cited the case of former state Rep. Kenneth Dunkin, who lost Democratic support after siding with Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner on a key vote. The Democratic Party, under Madigan’s direction, funded a primary challenger to unseat Dunkin.
The trial, which includes Madigan and his co-defendant Michael McClain, centers on allegations that ComEd and AT&T Illinois awarded jobs and contracts to Madigan loyalists in exchange for favorable legislation. ComEd acknowledged paying $1.3 million in bribes and settled a criminal investigation with a $200 million fine in 2020. AT&T Illinois agreed to a $23 million fine in a similar deal.
Madigan, who served in the Illinois House for 50 years and held the speakership for 36 years, resigned in January 2021 after losing his position. He faces 23 charges, including racketeering, bribery, and official misconduct, and has pleaded not guilty.
This latest twist adds uncertainty to an already complex case, underscoring the pervasive influence Madigan allegedly wielded over Illinois politics.
