Madigan’s former legal counsel shares insights as the corruption trial approaches closing arguments after 11 weeks of testimony
Chicago: So, the trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan is heating up. His ex-lawyer, Heather Wier Vaught, took the stand and shared some wild stories about the political drama at the Capitol.
She talked about how Madigan’s close ally drove her a bit nuts during bill discussions. And get this—she even had a little mishap with a water pitcher in the courtroom! The judge had to toss it out after she spilled while trying to pour a drink.
It was a short day for the jurors, who are getting ready to deliberate soon. They’ve been listening to testimony for 11 weeks, and closing arguments are just around the corner.
Madigan is facing some serious charges, accused of running a criminal enterprise to boost his political power and reward his friends. Prosecutors claim that companies like ComEd and AT&T gave jobs to his allies to win favor for their legislation.
Wier Vaught, who used to be Madigan’s chief legal counsel, was asked about her experiences during the negotiations for a key energy bill. She had to slow down her speech after the judge pointed out she was talking way too fast!
She recalled that there was no love lost between Madigan and then-Gov. Bruce Rauner, saying they were in the middle of a “political war.” When asked if Madigan ever told her to treat his ally McClain like a lobbyist, she confirmed it.
Wier Vaught also mentioned how she linked a 2017 AT&T bill to modernizing 911 services, which was a bit controversial. She explained how Madigan wanted to be kept in the loop about any legislative issues involving his law firm clients.
Things got a bit tense when she sparred with a prosecutor, defending her actions as Madigan’s lawyer. She admitted to meeting with a former aide on the day the FBI raided McClain’s home but insisted it was just a coincidence.
Throughout her testimony, Wier Vaught emphasized her loyalty to the Office of the Speaker, not just to Madigan himself. It’s clear this trial is full of twists and turns, and we’re all waiting to see how it wraps up!
