Jury Deliberates in Landmark Corruption Trial of Michael Madigan

The former Illinois House Speaker faces 23 counts of racketeering and bribery in a case alleging years of political corruption and misuse of power.

Jurors began deliberations Wednesday after a nearly four-month trial featuring over 60 witnesses and extensive evidence, including wiretaps and undercover recordings.
Michael Madigan, 82, is accused of leading a criminal enterprise to enrich himself and his allies, leveraging his decades-long political power in Illinois.
Prosecutors presented evidence of bribery schemes involving ComEd and AT&T Illinois, where payments were allegedly funneled to Madigan allies in exchange for legislative support.
Madigan's defense argued that prosecutors failed to prove corrupt intent, portraying him as a public servant who made mistakes but did not engage in criminal activity.
The trial, which has been described as historic, could have significant implications for Illinois politics, with the jury's unanimous verdict still pending.