West Central Reporter

Deputy Republican Leader Norine Hammond has expressed her reaction to the recent guilty verdict against former Speaker of the House Michael J. Madigan. The verdict, which found Madigan guilty on ten counts of bribery conspiracy, bribery, and wire fraud, concluded a five-month federal corruption trial.

Hammond stated, “Speaker Madigan ruled the Illinois House of Representatives with an iron fist. His reach extended from the 13th Ward in Chicago to the State Capitol in Springfield to the chair of the Democratic Party of Illinois." She highlighted that federal prosecutors were able to demonstrate what many who served alongside Madigan had already suspected about his actions.

According to Hammond, "nearly every decision, legislative action, no-show job, and state board seat that the former Speaker involved himself in came down to one thing – how Mike Madigan could enhance his political power and enrich himself personally." Concluding her statement, she remarked on the outcome of the trial: "After decades of absolute power for personal gain, justice has finally been served.”

The trial brought into focus allegations surrounding Madigan's long tenure as a powerful figure in Illinois politics and his alleged use of influence for personal benefit.