Dupage Policy Journal

Frank Napolitano is hoping to see lawmakers put the needs of overburdened and underserved Illinois residents first now that Mike Madigan is finally out of the picture.

"It may take a few years, but I definitely think it's an opportunity for us to get on the right track," Napolitano told the DuPage Policy Journal. "I see a power shift occurring, and hopefully, Republicans can make inroads in that."

For Madigan, the end comes after a nearly 40-year run of power leading the House and 50 years as a legislator.

The Chicago Democrat resigned his District 22 seat in a surprise move in February. He also quit his role as chairman of the Illinois Democratic Party. The decision followed the House replacing Madigan as the speaker in favor of Rep. Emanuel "Chris" Welch (D-Hillside).

The state's longest-serving lawmaker was connected to a federal Department of Justice probe that includes ComEd and an alleged pay-for-play scheme.

Federal authorities have not charged Madigan, but at least four individuals linked to the former legislator have been indicted as part of the probe, including former longtime confidante Mike McClain. Federal authorities also fined ComEd $200 million.

Madigan has maintained his innocence.

Napolitano, who formerly served as College of DuPage board chairman, said he hopes the new leadership will make for a different Springfield.

"I wouldn't say that I'm confident of that happening, but I'm hopeful that Democrats will begin to take another approach," he said. "That remains to be seen because the Madigan Machine is still in place, and it goes back a long, long time. You just hope they're enough common sense democrats still in office to understand the need to reduce spending, patronage hiring and balancing the budget without breaking the backs of taxpayers who need relief."