Metro East Sun

Madison County Board Member Erica Harriss said it was a big deal to finally see former House Speaker Mike Madigan’s (D-Chicago) reign come to an end in Springfield.

“We know Mike Madigan lost his speakership back in January, and to see him officially resign after 50 years is a big deal for Illinoisians,” Harriss said in an interview with Metro East Sun. “We need to press for policies which do not allow any one person or small group of people to get this type of power and influence.”

Hariss said voices can now be heard.

“This will allow less powerful and connected representatives and the Illinoisians which they serve to have a voice which is actually heard,” Harriss said.

Harriss said while he has resigned, Madigan is still the head of the state’s Democratic Party.

“It is important to note that Madigan currently remains in charge of the Democratic party of Illinois,” Harriss said. “Therefore, while he might no longer be involved in the legislative process itself, he maintains control of the money side which determines what candidates get funding.”

Madigan resigned last week, which will be effective at the end of the month.

"It's no secret that I have been the target of vicious attacks by people who sought to diminish my many achievements lifting up the working people of Illinois," Madigan said in his resignation letter, 7ABC reported. "The fact is, my motivation for holding elected office has never wavered. I have been resolute in my dedication to public service and integrity, always acting in the interest of the people of Illinois.” 

Madigan was replaced last month by Rep. Chris Welch as the speaker. He has been in the state legislature for 50 years and was House Speaker for more than 35 years.

Madigan will have the ability to handpick his successor, the Chicago Sun-Times reported. He holds 56 percent of the weighted vote when it comes to who replaces him, while Ald. Silvana Tabares (23rd), who is a close ally of Madigan’s, holds 31 percent of the weighted vote.