POPULARITY
Michael J. Madigan, a dominant figure in Illinois politics for the better part of 50 years, was found guilty in federal court this week on multiple corruption-related charges. Peter Hancock, Hannah Meisel and Ben Szalinski discuss how it all came about and what kind of legacy he leaves behind in Springfield.
After another week of lunacy in the news. Ben & comedian Pat Whalen review the wreckage. Including…the return of Michael J. Madigan, or at least his voice captured on FBI wiretaps. Prompting Ben to ask—what's the difference between Madigan and Paul Vallas? Also, Jesus Garcia endorsed Brandon Johnson. And the city council considers “reform”. And Pat does his imitation of Nick Sposato. And more…See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Russia Fires Upon A Nuclear Power Plant. The Fight for American Energy Independence. Another Illinois Politician Receives a Criminal Indictment. Dr. Kent Redfield professor of Political Science at the University of Illinois at Springfield, Joins the Daybreak Insider Podcast to discuss Michael J. Madigan's Indictment. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Listeners, we're back this week with Lizbeth Ramirez.Lizbeth Ramirez has an extensive work history including having worked 11 sessions of the General Assembly at the Illinois State Capital and approximately three years in City Council of Chicago. Lizbeth served as a staff member for Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan for seven years overseeing chamber operations, committees and House Floor Liaison. Lizbeth currently serves as the Executive Director for the Democrats for the Illinois House under Speaker of the House Emanuel Chris Welch.In addition to her direct experience in government, Lizbeth has served as in-house lobbyist for Commonwealth Edison in Springfield, Cook County and the City of Chicago. Among numerous accomplishments an in-house Lobbyist, Lizbeth, worked to ensure the passage of the Future Energy Jobs (FEJA) legislation in 2016. Lizbeth oversaw ComEd's Chicago North Redevelopment project from beginning to end, engaging local elected officials, community advocates and worked closely with the local aldermen to address community concerns. Lizbeth also provided the company with support as the community liaison for the north side Chicago, overseeing 19 wards from community issues, sponsorships, community engagement and promoting the Company's brand with initiatives to promote STEAM education, social responsibility and grants for renewable energy.Most recently, Lizbeth has volunteered her time as the Hispanic Star Chicago Hub Leader under the We Are All Human Foundation, where she organized volunteers in over 10 communities in Chicago to provide food and essential items to those in need, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through this work, Lizbeth received the Making the Difference Award presented by Telemundo Chicago and highlighted as Chicago's Very Own by WGN-TV. Among other public recognitions, Lizbeth was named “Best In-House Lobbyist” by Capital Fax as a first-year lobbyist, along with being named to Negocios Now's “Latino 40 under 40” in Chicago. During our conversation, we talked about:Her immigration storyHer interest in politicsStudying in MexicoBeing the only Latina in roomsHer new foundationAnd much more... This episode is brought to you by MagicMind is the world's first productivity drink.
If you've lived in Illinois for even a short period of time, you've heard the name Michael J. Madigan. But you've probably just heard the name because he rarely gives interviews. For nearly 40 years, Madigan served as Speaker of the Illinois House, and during that time, practically every piece of legislation passed in Springfield had to get his approval. In 2016, at the Speaker's request, then-President Barack Obama came to Illinois to campaign for a state representative who was hand-picked by Madigan. And why did Madigan want this new candidate in office? Because she was running against incumbent state Rep. Ken Dunkin, who had voted against Madigan. Dunkin lost. But now Madigan is out as House Speaker and out of the state legislature. A podcast out today from the Better Government Association digs into the rise of Madigan and how the power he built started to weaken. Guest: Justin Kaufmann — Host, “The Madigan Rule” Some good news to get you through: Today is the last day to register for the South Side Pie Challenge. The bake-off starts at 2 p.m. Saturday at Nichols Park. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm
To understand Michael J. Madigan, you have to understand where he came from. In the first episode host Justin Kaufmann explores the 13th Ward and the Chicago Machine with local journalists and politicos. They also discuss the self-styled rules Madigan followed in his climb from Chicago's Southwest Side to the pinnacle of power in Springfield, Illinois.With special guests State Representative Kelly Cassidy (14th) and Former State Representative Ken Dunkin (5th), Alaina Hampton, Mick Dumke, David Kidwell, John Chase, Dave McKinney and Ray Long.
Ben & Dr. D take the deep dive on the week's news. Everything from re-opening to Michael J. Madigan to fraudulent Republicans to everything!
State Senator Martwick returns to talk about everything from why the legislature can't meet virtually to the future of Michael J. Madigan. Also, Fair Tax and elected school board.