Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, once one of the most powerful political figures in the state, was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison and fined $2.5 million on Friday, marking a dramatic fall from grace. His sentencing concluded a lengthy federal corruption case that exposed deep-rooted misconduct in Illinois politics.
Madigan, 83, had held the record as the longest-serving legislative leader in American history. During his nearly 40-year reign as speaker and over two decades as head of the state Democratic Party, he controlled political maps, influenced legislation, and quietly amassed a personal fortune through his private law practice.
A federal jury convicted Madigan in February on 10 out of 23 charges, including bribery, conspiracy, and wire fraud. The charges stemmed from schemes involving utility giant ComEd, which prosecutors said provided jobs, contracts, and favors in exchange for legislation that benefited the company.
Prosecutors pushed for a 12.5-year sentence, while Madigan’s attorneys requested probation, citing his age, declining health, and the needs of his ailing wife, Shirley. She appeared in a video plea, telling the court she couldn’t live without him and would be left alone and helpless.
U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey dismissed those arguments, stating that Madigan lied on the stand and failed to take responsibility for his actions. Blakey emphasized that the sentencing guidelines could have allowed for up to 105 years in prison, noting the “nauseating display of perjury and evasion.”
In court, Madigan made a brief statement, apologizing to the people of Illinois and asking for mercy, saying he tried his best but wasn’t perfect. His remorse, however, failed to persuade the judge or prosecutors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Streicker said Madigan never acknowledged his wrongdoing and had the opportunity to lead with integrity but chose corruption. “He fit right into the mold of yet another corrupt leader in Illinois,” she said.
His defense team argued that he lived modestly and shouldn’t be blamed for Illinois’ legacy of corruption. But ultimately, Madigan’s long career ended in disgrace, with his legacy overshadowed by the very system he once ruled.
