Dems Block GOP Efforts to Subpoena Madigan
Special Investigative Committee Chairman Rep. Emanuel Chris Welch (D-Hillside) adjourned a committee hearing Tuesday after Republicans tried to issue subpoenas for House Speaker Michael Madigan. (SOURCE: Blue Room Stream)
Democrats leading the investigative committee in the Illinois House charged with probing House Speaker Michael Madigan’s role in a Commonwealth Edison bribery scheme blocked efforts by Republican members of the committee to issue a subpoena compelling Madigan to testify.
Rep. Deanne Mazzochi (R-Elmhurst) attempted multiple times during a hearing yesterday in Springfield to get a vote on subpoenas for Madigan, his confidante and former State Representative Mike McClain, and former ComEd and political officials tied to the scandal.
After extended arguments on the role of the committee itself and the power it holds, Chairman Emanuel Chris Welch (D-Hillside) told Republicans their motions were out of order and adjourned the committee.
“Issuing such subpoenas is premature,” said Welch, who also chairs the House Executive Committee, a slot that is typically filled by a Madigan ally.
Demmer argued Welch’s assertion.
“I don’t believe we can do the job we [are expected to] if we don’t hear from other witnesses and see information useful and relevant to the charge,” said Demmer.
Mazzochi went as far as calling the committee a “Kangaroo Court” if it would not issue subpoenas.
“If there is going to be any stonewalling to the taking of evidence, we can absolutely and should proceed [with subpoenas,”] she said.
Welch chastised Mazzochi and Republicans for offering subpoenas without first contacting him or running the language by the Democrats’ attorney, calling their action “unprofessional.”
“Instead of springing this on us, this matter should be taken under advisement,” Welch said shortly before adjourning the meeting.