(The Center Square) – Federal prosecutors say three former state lawmakers will be the first witnesses called to the stand in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.
Former State Reps. Carol Sente, Scott Drury and Lou Lang also testified in the ComEd Four trial, which ended with Madigan co-defendant Michael McClain and three others being convicted of bribery and corruption last year.
McClain defense attorney John Mitchell delivered opening remarks Tuesday morning, after prosecutors and Madigan attorney Thomas Breen made their opening arguments on Monday.
Mitchell argued that there is a difference between lobbying, which is legal, and an illegal bribe. Mitchell said McClain did “one-hundred percent” legal favors for Madigan.
The case continues and is expected to last 11 weeks.
