Kendall County Times

Former Republican Congressional candidate James Marter argues the reaction among Democrats to the latest scandal engulfing longtime House Speaker Mike Madigan (D-Chicago) rates as a textbook response for the party.

“One thing Democrats do really well is stick together no matter what the level of corruption,” Marter told the Kendall County Times. “That they’ve been really silent in this instance is really not a great surprise.”

After nearly four decades of being in control in Springfield, Madigan now finds himself at the center of an unfolding federal corruption probe involving ComEd. Federal prosecutors contend the company engaged in a “years-long bribery scheme” involving jobs, contracts and payments that were steered to him in his role as house speaker and chairman of the Illinois Democratic Party.

To date, no charges have been filed against the state’s longest-serving lawmaker, but prosecutors have not been shy in asserting that the utility giant sought to “influence and reward” Madigan by providing financial benefits to those directly tied to him.

Marter, who previously ran for Congress in the 14th District, argues the reason why Democrats rally around Madigan the way they do is easy to see.

“He’s got a lot of power and they’re afraid of him, but besides that I really don’t think they care,” he said. “As long as they have the power and can continue to rule, I think they’re OK. The thing is, they’re bankrupting the state and there’s no amount of power that can change that.”

Marter said he’s counting down the moments until voters have truly had enough. 

“I think that day is coming and I hope it provides an opportunity for another vision and direction for the state,” he said.  “Sooner or later, voters have to look at the people they’re putting in power and conclude they’re part of the problem.”