Metro East Sun

Democratic House Speaker Mike Madigan’s recent mea culpa left something to be desired in the eyes of Dwight Kay.

Madigan recently penned an op-ed in the Chicago Tribune where he took responsibility for not always doing enough to stem the sexual harassment scandal still simmering in Springfield.

Kay, who is running against Rep. Katie Stuart (D-Edwardsville) in the 112th District, is of the growing opinion it’s all too little, too late.

Rep.Katie Stuart

“On top of that, if you dissect what he said it really wasn’t a strong statement,” he said. “It didn’t mention any of the internal issues involving his team and said nothing about his lack of leadership or how he plans to handle the hundreds of outstanding complaints going forward.”

Madigan has faced rising criticism as several of his closest associates have become ensnared in the ongoing controversy.

Rep. Lou Lang (D-Skokie), who doubles as one of Madigan’s top deputies, was forced to relinquish his leadership post after being accused of “inappropriate behavior” by an associate. Tim Mapes, Madigan's former Chief of Staff, was shown the door amid allegations of bullying and harassment.

In the aftermath, Madigan has now pledged to have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to abusive behavior.

Kay doesn’t seem too convinced.

“I still don’t think he’s taking this seriously and that he still sees all of this as nothing more than a distraction,” he said. “I think he’s reading the tea leaves and measuring what his opponents in certain districts are doing and doesn’t want his candidates tied to his inaction on the issue.”

Madigan claims he has met with more than 100 women since February in hopes of figuring out how he could better do his job of making sure they feel protected. 

“He owes all these women more than just an apology,” Kay said. “But the reality is we aren’t any closer to a solution. I think all of this is just more calculation on his part.”

Illinois’ 112th District includes Bethalto, Caseyville, Fairmont City, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Pontoon Beach, Roxana, Shiloh and Swansea.