The outcome of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s corruption trial will be watched closely well beyond the federal courthouse, with the verdict representing a potential

Madigan and his co-defendant – longtime confidant Michael McClain – are on trial on racketeering and bribery charges​.

Madigan, the longest-serving legislative leader in U.S. history, was charged with bribery, racketeering, wire fraud, and other crimes.

As the Madigan trial nears its close, the jury preps for a pivotal verdict after final evidence and intense debates.

Lawyers for former House Speaker Michael Madigan formally rested their case before the jury on Thursday after calling 12 witnesses, most notably Madigan himself. And prosecutors also rested after a short rebuttal case.

Electing to take the stand in a move that shocked many, Madigan testified, in total, for about six hours.