Madigan Corruption Trial Faces Delays Amid Jury Selection Challenges

The former Illinois House Speaker is on trial for 23 counts of bribery, racketeering, and misconduct, with jury selection proving slow and contentious.

• Michael Madigan, former Illinois House Speaker, is charged with running his operations like a criminal enterprise involving utility companies ComEd and AT&T.
• The trial is expected to last at least 11 weeks, with Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain pleading not guilty.
• Jury selection has been slow, with many prospective jurors dismissed due to bias or hardship, and peremptory challenges used by both sides.
• Currently, eleven jurors have been seated, with one more needed for the regular jury and six alternates still to be chosen.
• The case is seen as a significant move against the 'Chicago Way' of political operations, highlighting the federal government's commitment to tackling corruption.

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