Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s federal corruption trial entered a new phase on Wednesday as the prosecution rested its case. Six years after the investigation began and nearly three years after Madigan’s indictment, the government concluded presenting its evidence against the once-powerful politician. The trial now shifts to the defense, with Madigan’s and his co-defendant Michael McClain’s attorneys preparing to call their own witnesses. Closing arguments and jury deliberations are anticipated sometime after the holidays.
Immediately following the prosecution’s closing, Judge John Blakey announced the commencement of the defense case, beginning with McClain’s legal team. They called retired AT&T Illinois lobbyist Stephen Selcke to the stand. Selcke had previously testified for the prosecution during the hung-jury trial of ex-AT&T Illinois President Paul La Schiazza, where his testimony was considered problematic for the government. Now, Selcke’s testimony, which spanned three and a half hours, largely mirrored his previous account. He explained the importance of responding positively to requests from elected officials regarding job recommendations. While the defense attempted to portray Madigan’s actions as unrelated to the alleged bribe paid to former state Rep. Edward Acevedo, Selcke acknowledged concerns that not hiring Acevedo could negatively impact Madigan’s office. The prosecution alleges that AT&T Illinois bribed Madigan by paying Acevedo $22,500 after he left the Illinois General Assembly in 2017, while the utility sought passage of key legislation.
Madigan and McClain are charged with racketeering conspiracy, as detailed in a 117-page indictment outlining five separate schemes. The indictment alleges Madigan led a criminal enterprise designed to enhance his 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, reviewing secret FBI recordings dating back ten years, including extensive testimony from former Alderman Danny Solis, a key FBI informant. This testimony encompassed a wide range of topics, from Solis’ personal misconduct to details of alleged patronage and political maneuvering within Madigan’s network. The schemes allegedly spanned from 2011 to 2019, involving numerous other individuals, some of whom have also faced federal charges. The jury was exposed to a comprehensive, unfiltered view of Illinois politics during this period.
The defense, including attorney Tom Breen, maintains Madigan was unaware of the alleged schemes, suggesting that McClain acted without Madigan’s authorization or knowledge. Madigan himself has actively followed the proceedings, taking notes throughout the trial. His family, including former Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, has consistently shown their support in the courtroom.
Two of the five alleged schemes involve accusations that Madigan received bribes from ComEd and AT&T Illinois in the form of jobs and money for his allies in exchange for legislative favors. McClain has already been convicted for his role in the ComEd allegations, which involved $1.3 million in payments to five Madigan allies who allegedly performed little or no work. This includes the $22,500 paid to Acevedo by AT&T Illinois. The remaining three schemes involve former Alderman Danny Solis, who secretly recorded conversations with Madigan and others as an FBI informant. These schemes involve attempts to steer business to Madigan’s law firm. Additionally, the prosecution presented evidence suggesting that Madigan helped his son, Andrew, and former aide Kevin Quinn obtain lucrative positions. Neither Andrew Madigan nor Kevin Quinn have been accused of wrongdoing.
Michael Madigan’s 36-year tenure as Speaker of the Illinois House ended in 2021, shortly after charges were filed against McClain and others. The investigation, dating back to 2014, has resulted in charges against approximately 20 individuals, with nine already sentenced to prison.