Power, Patronage, and Pay-to-Play: Madigan’s Conviction Exposes Illinois’ Broken System
For decades, former House Speaker Michael Madigan ran Illinois like a criminal enterprise, prioritizing power, patronage, and pay-to-play politics over the public good. His conviction on corruption charges last week marks a historic moment in the state’s long battle with political misconduct—a victory for justice that also underscores the urgent need for long-overdue reforms in Illinois government.
As both Speaker of the Illinois House and Chairman of the Illinois Democratic Party, Madigan wielded immense influence, operating what critics have called a political crime syndicate built on backroom deals, patronage, and cronyism—all at taxpayers’ expense. His conviction is both a reckoning and a stark reminder of the deeply entrenched corruption that has plagued Illinois for decades.
Illinois has been marred by corruption scandals at every level of government, wasting taxpayer dollars, eroding public trust, and empowering political insiders at the expense of hardworking families. From governors to local officials, a legacy of self-dealing and political misconduct has weakened governance and hindered the state’s progress.
Upon learning of the verdict on Wednesday, I issued this press statement:
“Madigan’s conviction is a dark moment in our state’s history, but it’s also an opportunity for change. It’s time for all 177 legislators in the Illinois Senate and House to come together and do the right thing. We must pass comprehensive reforms that include independent oversight and tougher ethics laws, to ensure no one can ever amass the kind of unchecked power Madigan held.”
Senate Republicans Hope for Fiscal Responsibility Ahead of Pritzker’s Budget Address
As Governor JB Pritzker prepares to deliver his budget address on Wednesday, Senate Republicans are urging him to focus on fiscal responsibility and sustainable solutions for the state’s financial challenges.
State spending has grown at a rapid pace under Governor Pritzker, largely fueled by federal COVID funds and one-time revenues. Now Illinois is facing an estimated $3.2 billion budget deficit.
During the previous year, the Governor balanced the budget while signing into law around a billion dollars in tax hikes. Meanwhile, the state has been spending more than $1 billion per year on programs for non-citizens, including free healthcare.
During media appearances, the Governor had said that tax hikes were off the table but just a week later said they could be a “last resort.”
I fear the Governor plans to once again raise taxes on Illinois families to cover reckless spending programs. The people of Illinois are already struggling and I am calling on the Governor to commit to not raising taxes.
DeWitte Distributes Over 3,000 Valentines
I want to thank everyone who donated valentines for this year’s Valentines for Seniors program. This is truly one of my favorite outreach events of the year because the community really comes together to help spread joy to individuals in nursing homes and assisted living centers who are often lonely.
My staff and I made a total of 18 stops throughout the 33rd Senate District in Kane and McHenry Counties, and once again, the smiles on the seniors’ faces were priceless as we made sure they knew how valued and appreciated they are.
Senator DeWitte to Host ICASH Unclaimed Property Event in Carpentersville
This week I am partnering with the Illinois Treasurer’s Office with hopes of connecting residents of the 33rd Senate District with more than $5 billion in unclaimed property and cash. From 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM at the Rakow Center’s Adult Activities Center, attendees can meet with a counselor from the Treasurer’s Office to learn if some of the unclaimed items are theirs. In addition to helping people search for property and cash, counselors can help them file claims.
Senators DeWitte’s ICASH Unclaimed Property Day
Wednesday, February 19
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Dundee Township Park District Rakow Center
Adult Activities Center
665 Barrington Avenue, Carpentersville
Right now, the state could be holding inheritance money or funds from a forgotten bank account that belongs to you. Don’t let it go to waste. Stop by to see if you are owed money and claim what belongs to you.
For additional information about this Unclaimed Property Day event, please contact my district office at (847) 214-8245, or email Abby at amccarthy@sgop.ilga.gov.