CHICAGO (AP) – Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker Thursday said the speaker of the House should answer questions about a bribery scheme in which federal prosecutors have implicated him, or resign.
Pritzker said that Illinois taxpayers “don’t deserve a political circus” after Speaker Michael Madigan’s closest confidante and three others were indicted. Utility giant ComEd admitted trading Madigan favors for helpful legislation.
Madigan issued a statement noting that he has not been accused of a crime and is innocent of wrongdoing.
Three more House Democrats also withdrew support for a 19th term by Madigan when a new General Assembly convenes in January.