CHICAGO — Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, once one of the most powerful politicians in the state, was sentenced Friday to 7.5 years in federal prison and ordered to pay a $2.5 million fine for his role in a wide-ranging corruption scheme.
The sentencing took place at the Dirksen Federal Building and followed a lengthy hearing in which Judge John Robert Blakey detailed his reasons for imposing the sentence. Madigan, 83, is required to report to prison by October 13.
Madigan was convicted in February on 10 counts, including bribery conspiracy, wire fraud, and offenses tied to the ComEd scandal, where political allies received no-show jobs in exchange for favorable legislation. 
Judge Calls Testimony “Nauseating”
Judge Blakey heavily criticized Madigan’s courtroom testimony, stating he “lied” multiple times under oath and described it as “a nauseating display.” The judge said that each no-show job Madigan orchestrated was a separate instance of bribery.
Despite the harsh critique, Blakey acknowledged Madigan’s age and long public service record, saying the sentence was “seasoned with mercy.” Madigan will also face three years of supervised release after serving his prison term.
Madigan Expresses Regret
In court, Madigan offered a brief apology:
“I am truly sorry for putting the people of Illinois through this. I tried to do my best to serve the people of Illinois. I’m not perfect.”
He showed limited emotion but hugged his children following the sentencing. As he exited the courtroom, he reportedly said, “Nice to know you” to the press.
Fallout and Reactions
The FBI and IRS praised the investigation and emphasized the importance of accountability for public officials.
“No individual—regardless of stature or tenure—is beyond the reach of the law,” said Ramsey E. Covington of the IRS.
Prosecutors had requested a sentence of 12.5 years, while Madigan’s defense pushed for probation. In the end, the court landed in between, marking a major fall for a man who dominated Illinois politics for decades.
Letters from over 100 people, including White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf, were submitted in support of leniency. But the judge made clear: “This sentence is about justice, not nostalgia.”
As Illinois continues to grapple with a long history of political corruption, the case against Madigan serves as a powerful warning to current and future leaders: corruption will not be tolerated.
