East Central Reporter

Jurors in the trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan and ComEd consultant Michael McClain heard a secretly recorded phone call from 2018, where McClain expressed disbelief at a colleague's complaints about political pressure. "That's what happens when you're in this game," McClain said to Andrew Madigan, son of the ex-Speaker. The trial centers on allegations that Michael Madigan led a criminal enterprise to boost his political influence and benefit allies.

Fidel Marquez, a former ComEd executive who cooperated with the FBI by wearing a wire, testified for the third day without cross-examination. Prosecutors are considering ways to streamline their case against Madigan and McClain.

In other news, the Illinois General Assembly is preparing for its November 2024 veto session starting November 12. The session allows time for addressing any vetoes issued by the Governor under Illinois' constitutionally granted powers.

The Governor’s Office of Management and Budget projected a $3.2 billion deficit for Fiscal Year 2026 due to stagnant state revenues and rising expenditures. This forecast was detailed in their annual report which considers trends from economic forecaster S&P Global.

State income tax receipts showed declines in October 2024 compared to the previous year, with personal income tax down $5 million and corporate income tax down $94 million. These decreases may be linked to increasing unemployment rates affecting paycheck-derived taxes.

Tragedy struck Chicago as police officer Enrique Martinez was killed during a traffic stop on November 4 in East Chatham. Darian McMillan faces charges including murder after allegedly removing his electronic monitoring anklet prior to the incident.

Officer Martinez will be honored on the Illinois Police Memorial at the State Capitol in Springfield, alongside other officers who died in service.