Madigan's control of Illinois House under scrutiny in corruption trial

CHICAGO (WGN) — Michael Madigan’s legendary control of the Illinois House was a significant topic of discussion Wednesday in his ongoing corruption trial.     

The now former Illinois House Speaker and trusted aide Michael McClain are facing a 23-count bribery and racketeering indictment.   

Wednesday, Oct. 30, was Day 2 of testimony from lobbyist Will Cousineau, who worked for the now-former Illinois Speaker of the House Madigan. Cousineau testified how the 82-year-old would secretly impose his will on legislation with the help of trusted lieutenants like McClain.   

"The goal is to make as many people happy as possible," Madigan said on a private conference call on Dec. 9, 2018, with top advisors, including Cousineau. 

"Why did you continue to participate in these meetings?" Assistant US Attorney Julia Schwartz asked Cousineau on the witness stand. The Madigan staffer-turned-lobbyist was no longer on the Speaker’s payroll during the December 2018 strategy session. 

"I worked for the Speaker for 18 years," Cousineau replied. "I just wanted to keep helping."

McClain, Madigan’s fixer, also participated in the phone conversations, though he was not employed by Madigan but paid by ComEd as a consultant.   

During the 2018 strategy call, which the FBI wiretapped, McClain is heard urging Madigan to appoint select House committee chairs who’d go to bat for him without leaving what McClain described as 'fingerprints.' 

Schwartz asked Cousineau how the phrasing could be perceived. 

"I think that means protecting people and protecting allies without the Speaker’s fingerprints,” Cousineau responded. 

According to testimony, Madigan imposed his will on legislation with help from co-defendant McClain.   

"Who would make decisions to hold a bill in the executive committee or rules committee?" Schwartz asked Cousineau.

"The speaker would be the ultimate decision maker," Cousineau replied.

Prosecutors aim to prove that Madigan was a master tactician and prolific campaign fundraiser who left nothing to chance. Defense arguments could include Madigan being unaware or not knowing beforehand that benefits were exchanged for official acts. 

Madigan and McClain both deny the corruption charges.