The trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, one of the most significant racketeering cases in Illinois history, is set to begin with jury selection on October 8, overseen by Judge John Robert Blakey. Madigan faces a 23-count federal indictment, accused of running a 'criminal enterprise' to enhance his political power and financial well-being, including bribery and racketeering involving the state's largest utility, ComEd. Judge Blakey has denied motions to dismiss parts of the indictment and to separate Madigan's trial from that of his co-defendant, Michael McClain, a former lawmaker and lobbyist. The trial comes after a six-month delay due to a Supreme Court review of a relevant bribery law. Madigan, who served as Illinois House Speaker for over three decades, is alleged to have used his influence to benefit personally and politically, steering legal work to his firm and securing benefits for his associates. The outcome of this trial could reshape Illinois politics, which Madigan dominated for years.