Former Illinois House Speaker Madigan's Conviction Appeal Heard by 7th Circuit

Madigan's high-powered legal team argues prosecutors' bribery case against him was flawed.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 1:53am

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A photorealistic painting of an empty Illinois state capitol building bathed in warm, golden light, with deep shadows casting a sense of quiet power and nostalgia over the scene.The appeal of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's conviction on corruption charges highlights the enduring political influence and complex legacy of one of the state's most powerful figures.Chicago Today

As former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan approaches six months in federal prison, his high-profile legal team made arguments to the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals on Thursday, urging Madigan's conviction on bribery and corruption charges be overturned. Madigan's attorney argued the government's core theory of a 'quid pro quo' bribery relationship between Madigan and utility company ComEd was flawed, and that evidence often pointed to Madigan blocking ComEd's agenda in Springfield.

Why it matters

Madigan was a powerful Democratic figure in Illinois politics for decades, serving as state House Speaker for 36 years. His conviction and appeal represent a major political scandal that has shaken the state's political establishment. The outcome of this appeal could have significant implications for how public corruption cases are prosecuted in the future.

The details

Madigan's attorney, Amy Saharia, argued that despite extensive evidence and testimony, prosecutors failed to prove a quid pro quo agreement between Madigan and ComEd. She noted that Madigan did not receive cash or lavish gifts, and that evidence often showed him blocking ComEd's legislative agenda. However, prosecutors pointed to the hiring of Madigan's political allies by ComEd as evidence of the bribery scheme. The 7th Circuit panel questioned both sides, with Judge Nancy Maldonado challenging Saharia's claim that making job recommendations is routine for politicians.

  • Madigan was convicted in 2022 and began serving a federal prison sentence in late 2022.
  • The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals heard oral arguments in Madigan's appeal on April 10, 2026.

The players

Michael Madigan

Former longtime Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives, convicted on bribery and corruption charges related to his relationship with utility company ComEd.

Amy Saharia

Attorney representing Madigan in his appeal of the conviction.

Julia Schwartz

Assistant U.S. Attorney who was part of the prosecution team that investigated Madigan and brought him to trial.

Amarjeet Bhachu

Former Assistant U.S. Attorney who led the decade-long investigation into Madigan and his inner circle.

Commonwealth Edison (ComEd)

The electric utility company at the center of the bribery allegations against Madigan.

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What they’re saying

“The alleged 'quo' ... is far too vague.”

— Amy Saharia, Attorney representing Madigan

“But these weren't just job recommendations - you do acknowledge that, correct?”

— Judge Nancy Maldonado, 7th Circuit Court of Appeals Judge

“There was simply no way this jury could've convicted lawful, innocent conduct.”

— Julia Schwartz, Assistant U.S. Attorney

What’s next

The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals panel will issue a decision on Madigan's appeal in the coming months. A separate 7th Circuit panel will also hear arguments in a related case on Tuesday involving two other Madigan associates.

The takeaway

Madigan's high-profile appeal represents a major test for how public corruption cases are prosecuted, with his legal team arguing the government's core bribery theory was flawed. The outcome could have significant implications for Illinois politics and the future of similar corruption cases.