Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's corruption trial is set to begin, with jury selection scheduled for October 8, after a federal judge denied multiple motions to dismiss charges against him. Madigan faces serious allegations, including racketeering, conspiracy, bribery, and wire fraud, with potential sentences of up to 20 years if convicted. Key evidence against him includes wiretap recordings involving his co-defendant Michael McClain and former City Council member Danny Solis, who cooperated with the FBI. Despite recent Supreme Court rulings that tightened federal bribery laws, the judge ruled the indictment remains valid as it alleges Madigan's actions were tied to specific legislative benefits from ComEd in exchange for favors. The trial is expected to feature around 50 witnesses and could last up to 10 weeks. This case represents a significant moment in Illinois political history, following a decade-long FBI investigation that has already implicated numerous officials.