Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan takes the stand in his federal corruption trial, denying wrongdoing in allegations he used his power for personal gain.
Michael Madigan, the former speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives, testified in his own defense during his federal corruption trial this week. The trial has been ongoing for several weeks, with jurors hearing from former aides, business executives, elected officials, and others about how Madigan allegedly used his power and influence over state government in schemes to benefit himself and allies.
Madigan's decision to take the stand is rare in criminal trials and a surprise from a man who rarely speaks publicly. Madigan, the longest-serving legislative leader in American history, faces a 23-count indictment for bribery, racketeering, wire fraud, and other crimes. He's been accused of using his influence as Speaker of the Illinois House and head of the Illinois Democratic Party to accumulate power and benefit his private tax law practice. Madigan served in the state legislature from 1971 to 2021 after being ousted as speaker by his fellow Democrats and resigning his seat. Among other schemes, Madigan allegedly used his influence to pass legislation favorable to companies like ComEd in exchange for benefits like no-show jobs and internships for allies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Streicker told jurors, 'When Madigan saw an opportunity to enrich himself, he took it.' Madigan has denied wrongdoing. His longtime confidant, Michael McClain, is also on trial, though he was already convicted in a separate bribery conspiracy case last year involving ComEd. Prosecutors have played secret recordings made by witnesses like former Chicago Ald. Danny Solis, who led the city's powerful Zoning Committee. During several hours of testimony, Solis told jurors that federal agents approached him in 2016 and he agreed to cooperate to avoid prison time for admitted wrongdoing, including bribery
MICHAEL MADIGAN CORRUPTION TRIAL ILLINOIS FEDERAL INVESTIGATION POLITICAL SCANDAL
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