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Ex-Madigan staffer returns to stand as corruption trial resumes

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(The Center Square) – Courtroom 1203 is back in session at the bribery and racketeering trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan in Chicago.

The jury was not seated until 9:19 a.m. because attorneys were discussing issues with Judge John Robert Blakey.

Former Madigan and Democratic Party of Illinois staffer Will Cousineau returned to the witness stand after beginning his testimony Tuesday afternoon.

Prosecutors played a recording of Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain talking about political appointments with Cousineau and other staffers. Madigan suggested the goal should be to “make as many people happy as possible.”

Cousineau testified Tuesday afternoon that Madigan was the “ultimate decision maker.” He is testifying with immunity at the Madigan trial as he did at the ComEd Four trial last year.

Prosecutors have alleged that ComEd and AT&T Illinois gave out jobs and contract work to those loyal to Madigan to get legislation passed that would benefit them in Springfield. Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain face 23 federal corruption-related counts and have pleaded not guilty.