DeKalb Times

During the trial of former Illinois Speaker of the House Michael Madigan, testimony revealed his involvement in bribery and ghost jobs. This led to a guilty verdict for the influential Democrat.

Despite this outcome, the culture of corruption that Madigan fostered remains prevalent in Illinois. His chosen successor now leads the House of Representatives, which continues to operate under rules established by Madigan.

The existing system grants significant power to the current Speaker, allowing them to control legislative actions. This includes blocking laws on term limits or redistricting efforts. The same culture enabled a corrupt politician to appoint a successor who halted an investigation into their own alleged misconduct.

This environment permits legislators to lobby while in office and obstructs accountability measures. It also allows public officials facing criminal charges to use campaign funds for legal defenses.

In response to Madigan's conviction, Illinois is urged to pursue ethics reforms vigorously. House Republicans have proposed a legislative ethics package aimed at restoring power to citizens. Key provisions include:

- Suspending pensions for retired lawmakers charged with corruption related to their legislative duties.

- Mandating elected officials recuse themselves from votes benefiting them or their families directly.

- Banning legislators and Constitutional officers from local-level lobbying.

- Strengthening the Legislative Inspector General’s authority for independent investigations.

- Ending the practice of transitioning from legislator to lobbyist without delay.

- Prohibiting public officials from using campaign funds for legal defense purposes.