East Central Reporter

Rep. Blaine Wilhour (R-Effingham) doesn't want to see what he hopes marks the start of Springfield's revival end with Mike Madigan leaving office.

"The resignation of Mike Madigan is hopefully an end of an era," Wilhour told the East Central Reporter. "Mike Madigan was the embodiment of the influence-peddling and self-dealing that has become the hallmark of Illinois politics for far too long."

After nearly four decades, Madigan, a Democrat from Chicago, said on Feb. 18 that he would resign his legislative seat representing District 22.

The surprise announcement comes after a power shake-up within the House and a federal investigation.

Democrats replaced Madigan as the speaker with Rep. Emanuel "Chris" Welch (D-Hillside) in January.

Madigan was also linked to a Justice Department corruption probe last summer. The federal investigation included ComEd, which agreed to pay a $200 million fine while admitting to no wrongdoing. Madigan has not been charged and admits no wrongdoing.

The investigation, however, has led to indictments against at least four of Madigan's associates.

"Madigan was the longest-serving speaker not just in Illinois but in the entire country," Wilhour said. "He was not elected Speaker over and over again because everyone just loved Mike Madigan. No, he was selected because he knew how to play the corrupt political game of thrones that is Illinois politics better than everyone else."

Wilhour said it'll take more than ousting Madigan for the state to make policy changes.

"His resignation is good news, but what would be even better is if the corrupt system that allowed Madigan to take power and stay in power were to be reformed," he said. "That would be better news for the taxpayers of Illinois."