Almost two years ago, I followed my conscience and led the call for Michael J. Madigan to resign as Speaker of the House and Chair of the Democratic Party of Illinois. At that time, he had not been charged with any crime, but I believed that the scandal surging around him demonstrated – at the very least – a massive failure of leadership.
Today’s indictment makes it clear that my concerns were fully justified, and I am deeply grateful that the Illinois House stood firm in removing Madigan as Speaker. Together, we are establishing more trustworthy leadership to assure that the work of the Illinois General Assembly is focused solely on improving the lives of the people who live in our state.