Michael Madigan, the former Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives, was sentenced to seven and a half years in federal prison on Friday, following a conviction on multiple corruption charges. The sentencing, which took place in a Chicago federal courtroom, also included a fine of $2.5 million, as ordered by U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey.
The high-profile case against Madigan, who is 83 years old, revolved around his use of legislative influence to benefit his close associates and political allies. Evidence presented during his four-month trial, which concluded in February, featured testimony from 60 witnesses and included documentary, photographic, and recorded proof. Madigan was found guilty on 10 of the 23 federal counts against him, encompassing bribery, conspiracy, and wire fraud.
Known as the "Velvet Hammer" for his subtle yet impactful political strategies, Madigan's career in the Illinois House began in 1971. He served as Speaker for nearly 40 years, becoming the longest-serving legislative leader in U.S. history. Throughout his tenure, Madigan exercised considerable sway over state politics and was instrumental in shaping legislative outcomes in Illinois.
In addition to his legislative role, Madigan chaired the Illinois Democratic Party from 1998 until 2021, significantly influencing candidate selection and the party's political strategy across the state. He also played a central part in the redistricting process, often creating political maps that favored Democratic control.
The case against Madigan highlighted his relationship with ComEd, an Illinois utility company. Prosecutors accused him of passing legislation favorable to ComEd in return for contracts, jobs, and other benefits for his political allies. This included securing a paid state board position for a former Chicago alderman post-retirement.
Federal prosecutors sought a longer sentence of 12 and a half years, emphasizing the gravity of the corruption. Madigan's defense, however, requested probation, citing his age and his wife's poor health. Judge Blakey acknowledged that guidelines could have justified a sentence of up to 105 years but also noted Madigan's perjury during the trial as a significant factor in the decision to incarcerate him.
During the sentencing, Blakey addressed Madigan directly, criticizing his decision to lie under oath: "You lied. You did not have to. You had a right to sit there and exercise your right to silence. But you took the stand and you took the law into your own hands."
The sentencing marks a significant moment in Illinois politics, addressing the corruption that has long been associated with Madigan's tenure. Despite this, State Representative Blaine Wilhour expressed skepticism about the impact of the sentencing, tweeting: "Michael Madigan getting some justice is something—but let’s not pretend it even begins to make up for the decades of destruction his criminal political cartel unleashed on Illinois."
