'Power and profit': Prosecutors summarize case against former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan

Final arguments are underway in the high-profile corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, marking the conclusion of a historic 11-week case involving more than 150 witnesses.

Prosecutors have focused their case on two key words: power and profit.

What we know:

Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Schwartz opened the government’s closing arguments by displaying those words to the jury, arguing they encapsulate Madigan’s alleged actions over decades.

"Michael Madigan and Michael McClain conspired to enhance Madigan's power and line Madigan's pockets," Schwartz told jurors, accusing Madigan of abusing his authority to control legislation and benefit financially.

At the core of the case are allegations that Madigan accepted bribes from ComEd, which prosecutors say included hiring his political allies for no-show jobs worth nearly $5 million in exchange for passing favorable legislation.

Schwartz called ComEd Madigan’s "personal piggy bank" during the closing argument, emphasizing the extent of the alleged corruption.

Madigan, who faces 23 felony counts, including bribery, racketeering, and official misconduct, remained quiet during the proceedings, listening as the government presented its summary of the sprawling case.

What they're saying:

Former federal prosecutor Patrick Collins praised the government’s strategy of simplifying the case with the "power and profit" theme, saying it helps jurors connect the dots after weeks of testimony.

"You can see in jurors sometimes the aha moments. They’re like, ‘Oh, OK,’" Collins said.

What's next:

Prosecutors will continue their closing arguments on Thursday, aiming to provide a clear narrative for the jury after the lengthy and complex trial.

The defense is expected to respond with its own closing arguments before the case is handed to the jury for deliberation.

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