North Egypt News

Franklin County activist Karen Tucker still can't believe Mike Madigan's era in Springfield is over.

"I'm glad is over, but I would have never thought he would walk away," Tucker told the North Egypt News. "I don't think anyone can say right now with any certainty what it might mean for the state, but if you ask me if Democrats had any sense, they'll try to clean things up in Springfield now because it's clear that more people are getting fed up, all eyes will definitely be on them."

After almost four decades leading the House, Madigan resigned from his District 22 seat.

His resignation comes just weeks after he was replaced as House speaker in favor of Rep. Emanuel "Chris" Welch (D-Hillside), after nearly two dozen members within the party took a hardline stance not to support his reelection campaign.

Madigan is also potentially facing legal problems.

Federal investigators linked the Chicago Democrat to an ongoing corruption probe that involves the state's largest utility, ComEd.

The utility giant was fined $200 million but did not admit to any wrongdoing. Federal authorities have not charged Madigan, and he maintains his innocence.

To date, four known Madigan associates have been indicted in connection with the probe, including longtime confidante Mike McClain. Madigan has not been charged and continues to proclaim his innocence.

Madigan has also vacated his role as chair of the Illinois Democratic Party. However, after 50 years as a lawmaker, Tucker wonders what this will mean for the party's relationship with Madigan going forward.

"I'm starting to think it may not be up to him," she said. "I think it may be based on how much of an odor others in the party think he's putting out after being implicated in the ComEd scandal."