Kankakee Times

Today, former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was found guilty on multiple charges, including conspiracy, bribery, and wire fraud. In response to the verdict, State Representative Jackie Haas of Kankakee issued a statement.

“I applaud today’s guilty verdict that condemns the unethical, pay-to-play era of governance that Illinoisans have become all too familiar with,” stated Rep. Haas. She criticized Madigan's tenure as both "unethical and immoral," claiming it negatively impacted the state's citizens due to an "unchecked and unbalanced power" in government.

Haas also remarked on the ongoing impact of Madigan's leadership: “While I am grateful that Former Speaker Madigan was found guilty of the crimes he committed while in power, his legacy of corrupt power and control continues to harm the people of Illinois through practices he instituted, such as gerrymandered maps and unfair house rules.”

The representative emphasized her call for ethics reform within the Illinois General Assembly. Despite numerous proposals from House Republicans aimed at tightening regulations on campaign finance, lobbying, and ensuring fair legislative mapping, none have reached a vote on the House floor.

“House Republicans continue to call for increased ethics reform. I am hopeful that this verdict will motivate our colleagues across the aisle to finally take action and ensure this abuse of power and corruption will never happen again," she said. "The people of Illinois deserve a government that works for them. It’s long past due that we uphold that responsibility, govern responsibly, and rebuild the trust damaged by the actions of the Madigan era.”

For further details about Representative Haas, visit RepHaas.com.