The prosecution concluded its case on Wednesday in the federal corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, setting the stage for closing arguments in the coming days. Over the course of several weeks, jurors heard testimony from former aides, business executives, elected officials, and other witnesses about Madigan’s alleged abuse of power to benefit himself and his allies.
Madigan, the longest-serving legislative leader in U.S. history, faces a 23-count indictment that includes charges of bribery, racketeering, and wire fraud. He is accused of leveraging his roles as Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives and head of the state’s Democratic Party to consolidate power and advance his private tax law practice.
Prosecutors alleged that Madigan used his influence to pass legislation favorable to companies like Commonwealth Edison (ComEd), receiving benefits such as no-show jobs and internships for his associates in return. “When Madigan saw an opportunity to enrich himself, he took it,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Streicker told jurors. Madigan denies the allegations.
The case also involves Madigan’s longtime confidant, Michael McClain, who faces trial alongside him. McClain was previously convicted in a related bribery conspiracy case involving ComEd.
As part of the prosecution’s evidence, secret recordings from cooperating witnesses like former Chicago Alderman Danny Solis were played in court. Solis testified over 23 hours, detailing his cooperation with federal agents starting in 2016 to avoid prison for his admitted bribery and campaign fund mismanagement.
He recounted how Madigan sought to recruit real estate developers as clients for his tax firm, with Solis aiming to “curry favor” by facilitating introductions.
Defense attorneys challenged Solis’s credibility, citing his history of financial misconduct.
With the prosecution’s case now complete, the defense began presenting evidence. Jurors will break for the holidays after this week and return on January 2. A jury instruction conference is scheduled for December 30, but no testimony will be given during that session.
