Dem congresswoman to testify at the Corruption Trial of former Illinois House Speaker  

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Illinois Representative Nikki Budzinski will testify on Monday in the public corruption trial of codefendant Michael McClain and former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Following lobbyist Nancy Kimme to the witness stand is Budzinski, who has served as the representative for Illinois’ 13th congressional district since 2023.

The trial centers around allegations of corruption, including a controversial land deal in Chicago’s Chinatown. McClain and lobbyist Nancy Kimme were involved in discussions regarding the transfer of state-owned land to the city for development. Recordings of conversations revealed that state Rep. Theresa Mah opposed the project due to concerns about gentrification in Chinatown. However, McClain and Kimme continued to push for the deal.

Additionally, prosecutors played recordings of political scheming to circumvent Illinois State Toll Highway Board seats. At Governor-elect Pritzker’s request, Madigan proposed introducing a bill to remove board members, including former DuPage County Board Chairman Bob Schillerstrom.

In connection with a plot involving ComEd and AT&T Illinois, Madigan and McClain are facing 23 charges, including bribery and racketeering. According to the prosecution, these businesses offered Madigan’s supporters contracts and jobs in return for supportive legislation. In a subsequent trial, ComEd paid $200 million in fines, and four of its officials were found guilty.

Attorneys expect Budzinski’s testimony to be brief as the trial moves toward its conclusion Monday morning. The trial is set to wrap up by 10:30 a.m., with Judge John Robert Blakey indicating an early release for jurors.

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