(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The trial of Mike Madigan resumed Wednesday with jurors hearing directly from the former House Speaker from the witness stand for the second day.
Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan told jurors at his federal corruption trial in Chicago that he was concerned when a Chicago alderman first made mention of a quid-pro-quo in his presence, not realizing that the alderman was wearing a wire.
The former speaker confidently spoke to the jury about his relationship with both former Chicago Alderman Danny Solis and his co-defendant Mike McClain, known as his political fixer.
Madigan and McClain are accused of racketeering conspiracy, allegedly using the ex-speaker’s power and influence to benefit friends and allies.
On the stand Madigan explained why he didn’t have an email or cell phone to jurors as speaker. He said that as a hard worker, he didn't want to take his work home.
The trial reconvenes on Monday. Madigan faces federal racketeering and bribery charges.
His trial began in October, and the move to have him on the witness stand came as a surprise. Madigan is the highest-ranking public official to testify at their own trial since former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich.
On Tuesday, Madigan was asked multiple times if he ever traded his public officer for personal gain, the 82-year-old clearly responded "no".
WBBM's Hayley Hanson contributed to this report.
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