McClain was widely seen as Madigan’s right-hand man, ensuring allies received favors while keeping the political machine running. His fate now remains uncertain as prosecutors weigh their next move.
A Trail of Backroom Deals
Madigan’s downfall has been years in the making. The heat began in 2020 when Commonwealth Edison agreed to pay $200 million to settle federal charges over a yearslong bribery scheme benefiting “Public Official A”—a thinly veiled reference to Madigan.
Prosecutors later expanded their case, accusing Madigan of using his influence to secure:
- Lucrative political appointments
- Zoning approvals for real estate projects in exchange for legal work
- A legislative land transfer deal to benefit his firm
The case intensified further when AT&T Illinois struck a deferred prosecution agreement, paying a $23 million fine and admitting it sought to influence Madigan through illicit legislative dealings.
Secret Recordings and Political Betrayals
The government’s case relied heavily on over 200 wiretapped phone calls and covert recordings, many featuring ex-Chicago Alderman Daniel Solis, who cooperated with prosecutors to avoid prison on his own bribery charges.
