Dupage Policy Journal

When it comes to the ongoing federal corruption probe involving ComEd, Illinois State Rep. Deanne Mazzochi (R-Elmhurst) seems convinced the verdict is already in on Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan (D-Chicago).

“Last week, upon request from the Special Investigating Committee, ComEd dropped pages upon pages of damning documents that give insight into how Speaker Madigan does his business while purporting to do the people’s business,” Mazzochi said. 

“This morning Speaker Madigan’s former close confidant and three ComEd employees were arraigned. It’s clear Speaker Madigan abuses his power and it comes at your expense," Mazzochi said. 

While Madigan hasn’t been criminally charged in the ongoing pay-for-play probe, GOP lawmakers predict more bombshells are yet to come, stemming from the nearly decade-long scheme where perks were allegedly steered to the longtime Speaker in exchange for favorable legislation.

Among the latest four charged in connection with the scheme is longtime Madigan associate Michael McClain, former Quincy lobbyist, who now faces bribery and conspiracy charges.

With Mazzochi as one of its members, the Special Investigating Committee has also been convened to look into some of Madigan’s most suspect actions with penalties up to expulsion as part of the sanctions.

Meanwhile, Mazzochi points to Madigan’s nearly 40-years of being in power as a shining example of what can happen when one holds unquestionable power for too long in Springfield.

"Illinois became the 21st state in 1818, Madigan, who first took office in 1971, has been in Springfield for nearly 25% of our state’s 202 year history. If you don’t see a problem with that…" Mazzochi said.

 Serving in the 47th District, Mazzochi won a second term in November, bagging just over 54% of the vote in her run against Democrat Jennifer Zordani.