Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan has been sentenced to seven and a half years in prison.
Madigan, 83, was convicted earlier this year of fraud, conspiracy, and bribery charges.
He was also fined $2.5 million and will be placed under supervised release for three years after serving his sentence.
Due to federal sentencing rules requiring at least 85 percent of the term to be served, he is likely not eligible for release until he is 90.
During sentencing, U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey described the case as a “tale of two Mikes.”
“This case is really sad, because the defendant is a dedicated public servant, apart from the crimes committed in this case,” Blakey remarked.
”He’s also a good and decent person,” he continued. “He had no reason to commit these crimes, but he chose to do so.”
1/ BREAKING:
Former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan was just sentenced to 7.5 years in federal prison on corruption charges.
Our team spent years exposing his machine.
Here’s what today means for Illinois, its residents, and its politics. pic.twitter.com/Lqp9p50K3n
— Illinois Policy (@illinoispolicy) June 13, 2025
Blakey also pointed out how Madigan had lied on the stand, calling it a “nauseating display of perjury and perversion.“
“You lied, sir,” the judge remarked. “You did not have to.”
Former Illinois Speaker of the House Michael J. Madigan Sentenced to Seven and a Half Years in Federal Prison After Corruption Conviction @FBIChicago @IRSCI_CHI https://t.co/tX9U2m9l0U
— U.S. Attorney’s Office (NDIL) (@NDILnews) June 13, 2025
In a statement before the judge, Madigan pleaded for mercy and invoked the declining health of his wife, Shirley, as a reason to avoid jail time.
“I am truly sorry for putting the people of the state of Illinois through this,” he said.
”I tried to do my best to serve the people of the state. I am not perfect.”
“When I look back on my life, being a speaker is not what gives me the most pride. I am most proud of being a good husband, a good father and now a good grandfather.”
“I ask respectfully that you let me take care of Shirley in my days ahead, and to let me spend my remaining days with my family.”
Madigan’s request was promptly denied.
The central allegations revolved around a years-long scheme in which Madigan used his powerful political position to steer state business and legislation in exchange for financial kickbacks and favors.
This included pressuring companies like ComEd (Commonwealth Edison) to provide lucrative jobs and contracts to his allies and associates in return for favorable legislation.
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