House Speaker Michael Madigan is one of Illinois’ most mysterious politicians. He’s so guarded, even his mere utterances can make a big splash.

Last month was no exception. Madigan raised eyebrows after attending a fundraiser for U.S. House Speaker John Boehner - as in Republican, John Boehner. Then a week later, he skipped the “Democrat Day” rally at the Illinois State Fair.

So what’s the story behind Madigan’s recent behavior and what does it mean for the 2012 election cycle? WBEZ’s Kristen McQueary, who’s been looking into this, talked with Alex Keefe.