Power, Patronage, and Pay-to-Play: Madigan’s Conviction Exposes Illinois’ Broken System
For decades, former House Speaker Michael Madigan ran Illinois like a criminal enterprise, prioritizing power, patronage, and pay-to-play politics over the public good. His conviction on corruption charges last week marks a historic moment in the state’s long battle with political misconduct—a victory for justice that also underscores the urgent need for long-overdue reforms in Illinois government.
As both Speaker of the Illinois House and Chairman of the Illinois Democratic Party, Madigan wielded immense influence, operating what critics have called a political crime syndicate built on backroom deals, patronage, and cronyism—all at taxpayers’ expense. His conviction is both a reckoning and a stark reminder of the deeply entrenched corruption that has plagued Illinois for decades.
Illinois has been marred by corruption scandals at every level of government, wasting taxpayer dollars, eroding public trust, and empowering political insiders at the expense of hardworking families. From governors to local officials, a legacy of self-dealing and political misconduct has weakened governance and hindered the state’s progress.
Upon learning of the verdict on Wednesday, I issued this press statement:
“As one of the three original petitioners who triggered an in-house investigation into suspected political wrongdoing by then Speaker of the House Mike Madigan, today’s guilty verdicts in federal court come as no surprise and serve as vindication for all of us who repeatedly spoke out against Madigan’s pay-to-play politics. I can only hope that these verdicts will send this clear message to Democrats who continue to engage in dirty politics: Even the most powerful of political figures is not above the law.”
Senate Republicans Hope for Fiscal Responsibility Ahead of Pritzker’s Budget Address
As Governor JB Pritzker prepares to deliver his budget address on Wednesday, Senate Republicans are urging him to focus on fiscal responsibility and sustainable solutions for the state’s financial challenges.
State spending has grown at a rapid pace under Governor Pritzker, largely fueled by federal COVID funds and one-time revenues. Now Illinois is facing an estimated $3.2 billion budget deficit.
During the previous year, the Governor balanced the budget while signing into law around a billion dollars in tax hikes. Meanwhile, the state has been spending more than $1 billion per year on programs for illegal immigrants, including free healthcare.
During media appearances, the Governor had said that tax hikes were off the table but quickly walked that back and said they could be used as a “last resort.”
I fear the Governor plans to once again raise taxes on Illinois families to cover reckless spending programs. The people of Illinois are already struggling and I am calling on the Governor to commit to NOT raising taxes.
Chesney Delivers Thousands of Valentines in 45th District
I want to thank everyone who donated valentines for this year’s Valentines for Seniors program. This is truly one of my favorite outreach events of the year because the community really comes together to help spread joy to individuals in nursing homes and assisted living centers who are often lonely.
My staff and I made a total of 34 stops throughout the 45th Senate District in Northwest Illinois, and once again, the smiles on the seniors’ faces were priceless as we made sure they knew how valued and appreciated they are.
We set a new record for the number of valentines received, and the amazing community participation allowed my staff and me to truly saturate the area with well-wishes for our older residents.
