Madigan, McClain to be arraigned Wednesday in federal court

CHICAGO — One week after he was charged in a 22-count federal indictment that included racketeering, for Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan is scheduled to be arraigned in a hearing to be conducted by phone at 1:30 p.m. today at the Everett M. Dirksen U.S. Federal Courthouse in Chicago’s Loop.

Madigan, 79, faces allegations he conducted his statehouse operation, his law practice and his role as the leader of the state’s Democratic party as a criminal enterprise that provided personal financial rewards for him and allies.

Also expected to appear for the arraignment by phone was Madigan’s longtime confidant, Michael McClain, the 74-year-old former state representative, lawyer and lobbyist from Quincy, who was charged with four counts in the 22-count indictment.

Prosecutors had asked that Madigan and McClain be required to appear in person, a request that U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffrey Cole denied.

The hearing is expected to be perfunctory, with both Madigan and McClain pleading not guilty before being released on previously arranged bond conditions.

Muddy River News will have an update following today’s hearing.