The sentence, which also includes three years’ probation after his prison term and a $2.5 million fine, follows a jury’s split verdict in February.

Former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich said ex-Speaker Michael Madigan’s conviction underscores the systemic problems in politics and government in the state Capitol.

Michael Madigan, the country’s longest-serving state House leader, served as speaker of the Illinois House from 1983 until 2021, with the exception of two years. Along the way, he developed a reputation as an all-powerful political wizard who wielded vast influence over laws affecting nearly