Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s federal racketeering trial entered a new phase on Wednesday as the prosecution rested its case. Six years after the initial public surfacing of the investigation, and nearly three years after Madigan’s indictment, the government presented its evidence against one of Illinois’ most influential politicians. The trial now shifts to the defense, with Madigan and his longtime confidant, Michael McClain, set to present their witnesses. While closing arguments and jury deliberations are anticipated soon, they are expected to occur after the holidays.
Immediately following the prosecution’s closing, Judge John Blakey announced the commencement of the defense case, beginning with McClain’s attorney. Retired AT&T Illinois lobbyist Stephen Selcke, a witness who had previously testified for the prosecution in the related, mistrial-resulting case of former AT&T Illinois President Paul La Schiazza, was called to the stand by the defense. Selcke’s testimony, spanning three and a half hours, largely mirrored his prior testimony. He emphasized the importance of responding positively to requests from elected officials regarding job recommendations. While the defense aimed to show Madigan didn’t trade legislative action for the $22,500 paid to former state Rep. Edward “Eddie” Acevedo, Selcke also acknowledged a concern that not hiring Acevedo could have resulted in a negative reaction from Madigan’s office.
The prosecution alleges that Madigan led a criminal “Madigan Enterprise,” engaging in five separate schemes to enhance his political power and reward allies. McClain is accused of acting as Madigan’s agent. Over the past several weeks, the jury heard from approximately 50 prosecution witnesses, including extensive testimony from former Ald. Danny Solis, a key undercover informant for the FBI. The testimony detailed alleged bribery schemes involving ComEd and AT&T Illinois, as well as instances of patronage and political maneuvering. The prosecution’s evidence spanned from 2011 to 2019, encompassing the tenures of former Gov. Bruce Rauner and ex-Mayor Rahm Emanuel (neither of whom are implicated). The trial also touched upon other individuals previously involved in federal court cases, including former Ald. Edward M. Burke, the late state Sen. Martin Sandoval, and former state Rep. Luis Arroyo. The evidence presented included secret FBI recordings, wiretaps, and even a video showing a punching bag with Rauner’s face in Madigan’s office.
The defense, represented by Tom Breen and Todd Pugh, maintains Madigan was unaware of the actions of those around him, particularly McClain. Breen argued that Madigan neither spoke nor acted in the manner suggested by the prosecution’s case. Throughout the trial, Madigan has actively followed the proceedings, taking notes. His family, including former Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, has consistently shown their support in the courtroom.
Two of the five alleged schemes involve bribes from ComEd and AT&T Illinois, channeled through intermediaries to Madigan’s allies in exchange for legislative favors. McClain has already been convicted for his role in the ComEd scheme, which involved $1.3 million paid to five Madigan allies who allegedly performed little or no work for the utility. The remaining schemes involve former Ald. Danny Solis, who wore a wire for the FBI after being confronted with evidence of his own wrongdoing. These schemes involved private business steered to Madigan’s law firm.
Additionally, the prosecution presented evidence suggesting that Kevin Quinn, a former Madigan aide, and Andrew Madigan, the former Speaker’s son, benefited from the alleged enterprise. Neither Kevin Quinn nor Andrew Madigan have been accused of wrongdoing. Michael Madigan served a record 36 years as Speaker of the Illinois House before resigning in 2021. The investigation, dating back to 2014, has resulted in charges against approximately 20 individuals, with nine receiving prison sentences.