Former ComEd Exec Testifies on Utility Rate Hikes, Political Favors in Madigan Trial
Lengthy Testimony Continues in Corruption Case
Former ComEd General Counsel Tom O’Neill took the stand for a second day to testify in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain. O’Neill’s testimony lit up the courtroom as he detailed ComEd’s involvement with the State’s energy planning and policy-making process.
“Policy-made- lawyers,” O’Neill called it. “A revolving door between ComEd and government.”
O’Neill’s testimony revealed that ComEd played a significant role in shaping Illinois’ energy policy, often through behind-the-scenes deals. He mentioned that ComEd executives would frequently attend meetings with state officials, sharing opinions on policy matters, and that ComEd would also provide financial support to lawmakers and their campaigns.
Name-Tagging Deals
O’Neill testified that ComEd would often identify potential benefactors in the political process and then tag them with lucrative jobs or consulting gigs. “This was not just limited to ComEd employees but also to people who had worked with ComEd in the past,” O’Neill explained. “These deals were intended to cement relationships and create goodwill.”
Utility Rate Hikes
O’Neill shed light on ComEd’s involvement in the 2011 gas rate hike, which led to a 23% increase in customers’ bills. He claimed that ComEd had deliberately inflated the estimated cost of upgrading its infrastructure, leading to a bigger rate hike than necessary. This move allowed ComEd to stockpile an estimated $2.5 billion in reserve funds, which would benefit the company in the long run.
Madigan’s Alleged Role
O’Neill’s testimony implicated Madigan and McClain in ComEd’s efforts to influence state policy. McClain, a friend and former chief of staff to Madigan, allegedly acted as a liaison between ComEd and the Illinois General Assembly. O’Neill believed that Madigan and McClain worked hand-in-hand to grant ComEd favorable treatment and favorable legislation.
Conclusion
The Madigan trial is being closely watched, and O’Neill’s testimony has once again drawn attention to the alleged cozy relationship between ComEd and state officials. As the trial continues, the implications of ComEd’s influence will be scrutinized further.
FAQs
* Who is Tom O’Neill? The former General Counsel of ComEd, who is testifying in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain.
* What is the purpose of the trial? To determine whether Madigan and McClain engaged in various forms of corruption, including bribery and extortion, as alleged by the prosecutors.
* What is the significance of O’Neill’s testimony? O’Neill’s testimony sheds light on ComEd’s involvement in shaping Illinois’ energy policy and its connections with state officials, potentially linking Madigan and McClain to corruption.
* What were some of the key points made by O’Neill? He detailed ComEd’s influence on energy policy, its relationship with state officials, and its role in the 2011 gas rate hike.
