Michael Madigan concluded his testimony, expressing regrets about his dealings with Danny Solis amid a corruption trial.
Madigan thought he had made it clear to Solis that there was no “quid pro quo” back in 2017. He decided to give Solis the benefit of the doubt because they had a long political history.
However, Madigan, once the most powerful politician in Illinois, admitted, “we all have regrets in life.” He specifically mentioned regretting any time spent with Solis.
This came after a tough four-hour cross-examination by a federal prosecutor, who pressed Madigan about his ongoing interactions with Solis, especially after Solis had mentioned “quid pro quo.”
Solis had agreed to help the FBI by recording conversations with people like Madigan to avoid prison for his own issues. He later called his “quid pro quo” comment “dumb” and “too blunt.”
During the questioning, Madigan was asked about a conversation where Solis sought help for a paid position on a government board. Madigan had asked Solis to assist his son, Andrew, in connecting with a local non-profit.
Andrew Madigan, who works in insurance, isn’t accused of any wrongdoing. But the prosecutor challenged Michael Madigan about how he linked his son’s request to Solis’ own needs.
Madigan left the stand around 2 p.m., and his defense team began calling more witnesses. They expect to wrap up the evidence by Thursday after a lengthy trial.
Madigan, who stepped down in 2021, is on trial alongside his ally Michael McClain for racketeering. Prosecutors claim Madigan led a criminal operation to boost his political power.
Solis left office in 2019 after his undercover work was revealed. During the questioning, Madigan also clarified comments he made about lobbyists who “made out like bandits.”
He explained he was referring to lobbyists who work part-time but earn high salaries. The focus was on former labor leader Dennis Gannon, who was mentioned in a recording.
Prosecutors argue that payments to certain individuals were meant to influence Madigan’s decisions regarding legislation. The trial continues with more evidence expected soon.
