Peoria Standard

After being convicted in February 2025 on federal corruption charges, former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan has reported to federal prison to begin serving a 7.5-year sentence. The sentencing, which took place in June 2025, followed a series of presentations and hearings. The federal judge presiding over the case stated that the sentence was appropriate given the evidence of bribery and corrupt conduct involving Madigan and members of his political circle.

Madigan, who was also the longtime head of the Illinois Democratic Party, was ordered to report to prison by Monday, October 13. His legal team sought to delay the start of his sentence by filing a motion with the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago, hoping to remain free during his appeal. However, on Friday, October 3, the appellate court denied this request.

Ryan Spain, a Republican who was elected to the Illinois State House in 2017 to represent the 73rd House District, succeeded David R. Leitch as state representative.