
Inside AT&T’s alleged ‘conspiracy’ to bribe powerbrokers at the Illinois Capitol
WBEZ and the Sun-Times have learned the identities of three top phone company lobbyists with ties to a Springfield corruption scandal.
The federal investigation into ComEd and Illinois politicians.
In March 2022, former Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan, one of Illinois’ most powerful politicians, was indicted on federal charges of bribery and racketeering, part of a multiyear sprawling investigation into political corruption. At the heart of the investigation is Commonwealth Edison, the state’s largest utility. In July 2020, the company admitted it gave contracts to Madigan’s political allies in exchange for favorable government actions, including the passage of laws favorable to ComEd’s business interests. A handful of former top ComEd executives and lobbyists have been indicted in the scheme. The 22-count indictment against Madigan alleged that he ran “The Madigan Enterprise,” enriching himself and his associates through bribery and attempted extortion at the expense of taxpayers and public confidence in government. Madigan denies the charges.
Follow all of WBEZ’s groundbreaking coverage on the Madigan and ComEd scandal here and check back for updates.
WBEZ and the Sun-Times have learned the identities of three top phone company lobbyists with ties to a Springfield corruption scandal.
Two major utilities serving Illinois residents have now been charged as a result of the years-long investigation that swirled around Madigan.
Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker and legislative Democratic leadership say progress has already been made. But some reform groups and GOP members say it’s not enough.
When Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan promised to help Ald. Solis obtain a state board appointment, he followed up with his own request.
With some focus in the indictment on how one alderman allegedly abused his power on the Zoning Committee, Mayor Lori Lightfoot says that power should be curbed.
Unlike generations of high-profile indicted politicians before him, Madigan did not have to force his way through a media horde.
Madigan’s successor distanced himself from the “talking points” criticizing prosecutors for pursuing “unfair, partisan accusations.”
Federal prosecutors alleged the longtime Springfield power broker and former state Democratic Party leader ran a criminal enterprise dubbed “The Madigan Enterprise.” And Gov. JB Pritzker was …
Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s administration still hasn’t struck a deal with the state’s largest utility that would allow it to continue providing power to Chicago.
Tim Mapes, once the chief of staff to the state’s most powerful politician, faces federal perjury and obstruction of justice charges.