Former Commonwealth Edison CEO Anne Pramaggiore is taking steps to avoid her impending prison sentence by hiring a lobbying firm to seek a presidential pardon. Pramaggiore, who was convicted in connection with a bribery scheme involving former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, is not due to report to federal prison until December. She has engaged Crossroads Strategies, a Washington, D.C., lobbying firm, for assistance in her efforts.
According to NotUs.org, Pramaggiore is part of a growing trend where individuals convicted of crimes are employing high-profile lobbyists to pursue pardons. She reportedly paid Crossroads Strategies $80,000 last quarter for guidance on public policy and legislative matters related to the pardon process. In July 2023, Pramaggiore received a two-year prison sentence, with her reporting date set for December to accommodate medical treatment for an undisclosed condition.
Pramaggiore was one of four defendants found guilty in the ComEd bribery case, which alleged that the utility provided a “stream of benefits” to Madigan’s political organization in exchange for favorable legislation. Her co-defendants, lobbyists Jay Doherty and John Hooker, are currently serving short sentences, while another defendant, Michael McClain, is expected to begin his sentence soon. Madigan, who was convicted in a separate trial, is serving a sentence of 7.5 years in a West Virginia prison.
Pramaggiore’s adviser, Mark Herr, commented on her situation, stating, “Anne Pramaggiore was wrongly convicted and is appealing her case to the Seventh Circuit. At the same time, she is exploring all options in her pursuit of justice, including the possibility of a pardon.” Meanwhile, Madigan has retained prominent lawyers for his appeal, which recently argued that the relationship between the utility and the veteran politician was typical political interaction, not bribery.
DuPage County Political Feud Escalates
In another significant development in Illinois politics, a contentious dispute between the DuPage County Board and County Clerk Jean Kaczmarek reached a resolution last week when the board approved payment of over $230,000 in election-related expenses that had previously been overlooked. The disagreement arose from Kaczmarek’s assertion of her authority to manage her office independently, while Board Chairwoman Deb Conroy insisted on adherence to established auditing and bill-paying protocols.
The board’s decision came after a legal battle, which Kaczmarek had been appealing. The payment to two Naperville companies for services related to the 2025 election appears to conclude this phase of litigation. However, tensions remain high, as the state’s attorney’s office is pursuing a special prosecutor to investigate potential criminal charges against Kaczmarek stemming from the dispute.
Kaczmarek claimed victory following the board’s decision, asserting that the payments should have been processed earlier. Her remarks have further irritated fellow Democrats on the board, who have expressed intentions to challenge her in the upcoming primary election.
Political Landscape Shifts Ahead of 2024 Elections
The political climate is also shifting nationally as The Wall Street Journal issued a cautionary note to former President Donald Trump in the wake of recent Democratic victories in off-year elections. The article highlighted concerns about Trump’s economic record, noting persistent inflation at 3% and his contentious trade policies. The publication warned that if the Republican Party fails to adapt, it risks losing its House majority and potentially the Senate in the lead-up to the 2028 presidential election.
Despite these warnings, Trump’s track record suggests he may dismiss external advice. The potential implications for the Republican Party could lead to increased political strife as the next presidential election approaches.
In the realm of state politics, Champaign County Auditor George Danos has entered the race for state comptroller, submitting his candidacy on the final day of the election filing period. Danos will compete against several prominent Democratic candidates in the March primary, including state Representatives Margaret Croke and Stephanie Kifowit, as well as Holly Kim, the Lake County Treasurer, and state Senator Karina Villa.
Danos emphasized the importance of addressing the state’s financial performance and has invited his opponents to participate in a debate at the University of Illinois, highlighting its esteemed accountancy program.
In sports, the 2025-26 men’s college basketball season is underway, with Sports Illustrated ranking the Fighting Illini at number 15 in its preseason Top 25. The publication noted that while the current team may lack the NBA talent of previous years, its experience and proven track record make it a formidable competitor. The Illini aim to challenge the dominance of teams like Purdue and others in a highly competitive season ahead.
