Madigan's Leadership Becomes Democratic Primary Litmus Test Amid Harassment Complaints

The Chicago Tribune ^ | February 20, 2018 | Rick Pearson

[PBRCat]

Speaker Michael Madigan’s undisputed political power came under attack Tuesday amid new criticism over his handling of harassment complaints as the March Democratic primary increasingly turns into a referendum on his leadership. Madigan faced increasing calls for him to step down from the state Democratic chairman post he has held for two decades, as well as demands for an independent investigation of complaints that have led him to shed two top loyal political lieutenants in a week. The misconduct scandal comes as the long-serving speaker and his private interests as a property tax appeals lawyer already had been a focal point in several races.

Democratic state Sen. Melinda Bush of Grayslake said, “We need a real, independent law firm, not someone that is hired by the chair of the party, and that’s what’s happened.” Bush also said she did not believe the chair of the Democratic Party should also serve as either speaker of the House or president of the Senate. Bush said Madigan “should seriously consider” resigning as party chairman.

Madigan’s political organization effectively seized control of the state Democratic Party operation in 1990 and the speaker formally became its chairman eight years later. The move effectively consolidated his political power and fundraising ability, and he’s focused largely on ensuring Democratic majorities in the Illinois House. During his 47 years in the Illinois House, 35 of them as speaker, there have been several premature pronouncements of Madigan’s political demise.

[PBRCat]

The Ward Boss and leader of the property tax appeals racket finds himself challenged for the first time in decades.

[Impy]

The vagina brigade is dreaming if they think they’ll take Madigan down over this, dude is Al Capone, not Trent Lott.

[SunkenCiv]

Thanks PBRCat.