East Central Reporter

State Rep. Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) is speaking out on the legacy of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, following his recent conviction on corruption charges. 

Madigan, the longest-serving leader of any state or federal legislative body in U.S. history, was convicted on 10 counts of conspiracy, bribery, and wire fraud. The charges stemmed from corrupt schemes involving ComEd, Illinois' largest utility, during his 36-year tenure as Illinois House Speaker.

Halbrook, an outspoken critic of Madigan’s leadership, emphasized the systemic nature of the corruption that plagued the state under Madigan’s reign, calling for urgent reforms to combat Illinois’ long-standing political culture.

“Madigan’s leadership epitomized the worst of Illinois politics—unchecked power, backroom deals, and a pay-to-play system that benefited the politically connected at the expense of taxpayers,” Halbrook told the East Central Reporter. “His influence over state government was so absolute that major corporations like ComEd knew the only way to do business in Illinois was to play by his rules. The bribery scheme exposed how deeply entrenched this corruption was, as utility ratepayers were essentially funding a system that kept Madigan’s political machine in power.” 

Madigan’s trial, which featured extensive wiretap evidence and recordings, exposed his use of political power for personal gain, ultimately leading to his downfall after decades in office.

Halbrook sees Madigan’s conviction as just one step in addressing the corruption that has long plagued Illinois. 

“Madigan’s conviction is a damning indictment of Illinois’ political culture, but the real question is whether Democrats in Springfield will truly clean house or continue business as usual,” he said. “Corruption in Illinois government didn’t start or end with Madigan—his machine may be gone, but the same policies, the same power plays, and the same disregard for taxpayers persist. Until we enact real ethics reforms, tighten lobbying rules, and break the stranglehold one-party rule has on this state, corruption will remain a systemic issue.” 

Reflecting on the impact of Madigan’s policies, Halbrook laid out the economic consequences that resulted from his leadership. 

“Madigan’s legacy is one of economic decline, fiscal mismanagement, and political corruption,” he said. “Under his reign, Illinois amassed massive debt, saw pension liabilities spiral out of control, and became one of the most overtaxed states in the country. His policies and leadership drove businesses and families out of Illinois, contributing to our state’s long-term population decline. Rather than being remembered as a leader, he’ll be remembered as the architect of Illinois’ financial and ethical ruin.” 

From 1983 to 2023, Illinois averaged more than one corruption conviction per week, a period largely defined by the leadership of Madigan.

During those 40 years, the state saw 2,168 convictions, with Madigan remaining a central figure in Illinois politics until his departure in 2021. Even after Madigan left office, Illinois recorded a record 59 corruption convictions in 2023, the majority of which came from the Northern District, which includes Chicago.

Halbrook also criticized Madigan for manipulating the political system through gerrymandering, which he claims ensured the dominance of the Democratic Party while silencing opposition. 

“Madigan’s manipulation of legislative maps ensured that he and his party could maintain power no matter how badly their policies hurt Illinois families,” he said. “He drew districts that protected his political allies, eliminated competition, and effectively silenced conservative voices across the state. This gerrymandering created a political system where elections were decided before a single vote was cast, making real change nearly impossible. Until we enact independent redistricting reform, Illinoisans will continue to suffer under maps designed to serve politicians, not the people.” 

According to Illinois Policy, Michael Madigan’s nearly four-decade tenure was defined by corruption, fiscal mismanagement and a growing state debt. Serving from 1983 to 2021, Madigan held vast political influence, shaping both legislation and elections.

His control over the state budget and pension system contributed to the nation’s worst pension crisis and Illinois’ near-junk credit rating. Madigan played a key role in securing generous pension benefits for public employees, including lawmakers, without proper funding plans, which led to a surge in pension debt.

Halbrook highlighted the negative effects of Madigan’s policies on downstate Illinois, claiming that rural communities were often neglected in favor of Chicago-centric policies. 

“Downstate Illinois has been hit hardest by Madigan’s policies—higher taxes, more regulations, and a government that prioritizes Chicago’s interests over the rest of the state,” he said. “His stranglehold on state politics meant rural communities were often left behind while Springfield catered to political insiders. Businesses have shuttered, families have moved out, and job opportunities have dwindled—all because of decades of reckless policies and backroom deals that put power over people.”

While Halbrook acknowledged that Madigan’s conviction is a step forward, he stressed that it is not enough. He called for stronger reforms to ensure a cleaner, more accountable political system. 

“Madigan’s conviction is long overdue, but it’s not enough to just hold one man accountable—we need systemic change,” he said. “Illinois must enact stronger ethics laws, independent redistricting, and real reforms that return power to the people rather than corrupt politicians. Voters should remember that Madigan didn’t act alone—his policies were enabled by those who benefited from his system. If Illinois is to have a future, we must break free from the corruption and failed policies that have plagued us for far too long.” 

Halbrook represents House District 107 which includes the communities of Shelbyville, Taylorville, Pana, Effingham and Sullivan.