Nearly four months after they were first called to Chicago’s federal courthouse, jurors have begun deliberating in the most consequential Illinois public corruption case in years: the racketeering case of former House Speaker Michael Madigan and his longtime confidant,

As ComEd’s lead external lobbyist for years, McClain took Madigan’s job recommendations and referred them to leaders at the utility for consideration. McClain’s attorney Pat Cotter characterized the efforts as merely “favors” in closing arguments this week, which are allowed in the practice of lobbying.

Madigan faces a 23-count indictment in federal court, charging him with racketeering conspiracy, bribery, wire fraud, and attempted extortion.

Jury deliberations are expected to begin Wednesday after the prosecution’s rebuttal case at the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and codefendant Michael McClain. Assistant U.

Since early October, a jury of eight women, four men, and four alternates have heard testimony from almost 60 witnesses, listened to and watched close to 150 wiretapped calls and secretly recorded videos,

The fate of one of the most powerful politicians in Illinois history is now in the hands of a jury. The latest: Closing arguments in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan wrapped up Wednesday afternoon,