WASHINGTON, D.C. — Illinois’ U.S. House Republican delegation urged President Trump in a letter today to reject former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s request for a presidential pardon. U.S. Reps. Mike Bost (IL-12), Darin LaHood (IL-16), and Mary Miller (IL-15) expressed concerns that granting Madigan clemency following his sentencing to seven and a half years in prison for conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery would undermine accountability and public trust.

 

“We write with a unified message as Republican Members of the United States House of Representatives for the State of Illinois to express our concerns regarding a request for a presidential pardon from former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan,” the members said. “Illinois families and taxpayers have suffered for decades under entrenched corruption, and a pardon in this case would send a dangerous message that public officials can betray the public trust with impunity.

 

“The bribery and corruption scheme involved the misuse of state resources, including directing public utility contracts and payments to benefit private political allies. This was a deliberate, long-running pattern of abuse of public office.

 

“Granting clemency in this case would not only reward a lifetime of unethical behavior but also embolden other public officials to exploit their offices for personal gain. For these reasons, we respectfully urge you to deny any request for a presidential pardon from Michael Madigan. Denying his request is the best way to ensure Illinois residents know their leaders are held to the highest standards of integrity.”

 

The full letter to President Trump is available here. 

 

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