Michael Madigan’s 90-month prison term stands as appeals drag on
Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was found guilty of multiple federal crimes in February 2025. A jury convicted him on 10 counts, including bribery, conspiracy, and wire fraud. Since then, his legal battles have continued as he pursues appeals and a possible pardon from the president.
Madigan’s conviction came on February 12, 2025, after a lengthy trial. Three months later, on June 13, he received a 90-month prison sentence, along with 3.5 years of supervised release and a $2.5 million fine. Despite his legal team’s efforts, both a U.S. District Court judge and the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals denied his requests to stay free while appealing.
He began serving his sentence on October 13, 2025, at a minimum-security prison camp in Morgantown, West Virginia. His scheduled release date is set for February 22, 2032. Meanwhile, Madigan filed a notice of appeal on July 23, 2025, setting the stage for further court proceedings.
In December 2025, the appellate court granted the U.S. government an extension to file its brief, pushing the deadline to January 30, 2026. Madigan’s reply was ordered by February 20, 2026. The delay followed a request from Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia Schwartz, who cited additional workload since the conviction. A federal judge will now decide who handles Madigan’s defense in the appeal.
Beyond the courts, Madigan has also sought clemency. His case is under review by the Department of Justice Office of the Pardon Attorney after he petitioned the president for a pardon upon completing his sentence.
Madigan remains in prison while his appeal moves forward. The government’s brief is due in early 2026, with his response expected shortly after. The outcome of both the appeal and his pardon request will determine whether his sentence is reduced or upheld.
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