SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Michael J. Madigan was the longest serving statehouse speaker in U.S. history. Now, he could be spending time behind bars. WAND News is taking a deep dive into how Madigan's power in Springfield led to corruption charges and a conviction.

Madigan was Speaker of the Illinois House for more than three decades and led the state's Democratic party. The former Speaker and his close friend, Mike McClain, were indicted on 23 counts for public corruption in 2022.

The federal indictment stated that Madigan conspired to solicit and demand jobs, contracts and other bribes from Commonwealth Edison in return for lawmakers passing bills favorable for the utility company. Madigan was charged with racketeering conspiracy and counts of using interstate facilities to help with bribery, wire fraud and attempted extortion. 

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Gov. JB Pritzker was quick to respond to the charges in 2022.

"Anybody who is guilty of corrupt acts in this state should be held to the fullest extent of the law accountable for their actions," Pritzker said.

Former U.S. Attorney John Lausch said the indictment detailed a longterm multi-faceted scheme to use public positions for unlawful private gain. The indictment also explained that Madigan and allies used threats, intimidation, and extortion to solicit the benefits from private parties. 

Current House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch chaired the legislative investigation into Madigan's wrongdoing with ComEd. Although, Welch was later handpicked by Madigan to become the next leader for the chamber. Welch argued the legislative forum was the wrong place to investigate Madigan.

"The proper forum was in a court of law led by the United States Attorney," Welch said in 2022. "That process is playing out as it should under the constitution. I think I did my job. I think I did it openly, honestly, and fairly. We're going to continue to do that."

Federal prosecutors said Madigan and McClain were involved in the "Madigan enterprise," which enhanced the former Speaker's political power and well-being.

Illinois Republican lawmakers called Madigan's indictment a dark mark on the state's history. However, many GOP members said they weren't surprised by the announcement. Now, they hope to see significant ethics reform under the Capitol dome.

"We cannot afford to have federal prosecutors continue to enforce our weak ethics laws, regardless of what Speaker Welch feels," said House Minority Leader Tony McCombie.

Jurors found Madigan guilty of 10 counts and acquitted him of seven. Yet, the jurors could not reach a decision on six other counts against Madigan. The jury was also deadlocked on all charges against Mike McClain.

"The Madigan verdict by a jury of everyday Illinoisans is an important message to anyone in government - or those thinking about public service - that if you choose corruption you will be found out, and you will be punished," Pritzker said Wednesday. "This week has been a vital reminder that we must maintain our vigilance in cleaning up government and always put the people we serve first."

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