South Central Reporter

State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield) has issued a statement following the sentencing of former Speaker Michael Madigan in federal court. McClure described the event as "another sad day for Illinois citizens," emphasizing that Madigan's sentencing is a reflection of a broader issue within the state's political culture.

"Today’s sentencing marks another sad day for Illinois citizens, as the man who ruled over the state for decades was sentenced for his role overseeing an enterprise of corruption," McClure stated. He expressed concern that Madigan "was not the first politician to choose to enrich himself over working for his constituents and, unfortunately, he probably won’t be the last."

The senator criticized Illinois' longstanding reputation for corruption, noting that it will not be resolved by this single case. He highlighted what he sees as a lack of progress in addressing these issues at a legislative level since Madigan's indictment in 2022. "Illinois has a well-earned national reputation for its culture of corruption, which will not end with the sentencing of one man," McClure said.

McClure also pointed out that no new ethics reforms have been passed by Governor Pritzker and his allies in the General Assembly since Madigan's legal troubles began. He concluded by stating that "this sentencing should serve as a stark reminder of the work that still needs to be done to root out corruption."