Illinois
Madigan trial: Former Illinois House Speaker returns to the witness stand
Madigan back on the stand for cross-examination
Former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan returned to the witness stand Monday afternoon in his federal corruption trial.
CHICAGO – Former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan returned to the witness stand Monday afternoon in his federal corruption trial.
Jurors reported to court at 1 p.m. after a morning of legal arguments about the scope of the government’s questioning.
What We Know
Assistant U.S. Attorney questioned Madigan about hiring practices, specifically focusing on Jeffrey Rush, the son of U.S. Representative Bobby Rush.
Prosecutors revealed that Jeffrey Rush was dismissed from his role as a supervisor at the Illinois Department of Corrections after allegations surfaced that he had a sexual relationship with an inmate.
Jurors were shown a transcript of a phone call between Madigan and his co-defendant Michael McClain.
In the call, Madigan said Congressman Bobby Rush had asked him to assist Jeffrey Rush in finding employment.
Following the call, a résumé was sent to Madigan, and Jeffrey Rush was hired by Friends of Michael J. Madigan, a fundraising group tied to the former speaker.
Madigan’s defense attorneys argue that his actions were typical of political negotiations and do not constitute corruption. They maintain that Madigan never misused his public office for personal benefit.
Together, McClain and Madigan are facing 23 felony counts, including racketeering and bribery.
McClain is not expected to take the stand in his own defense.
What’s Next
Madigan’s cross-examination will continue as the trial progresses.
Prosecutors are expected to delve further into his alleged involvement in hiring and his broader use of political influence.
The Source: Information in this article was obtained through court proceedings and testimony from Mike Madigan’s trial.