What happens after Michael Madigan?

IL House of Representatives by Marie Beschen

I don't talk about state politics as much I used to here, however, Rich Miller's Crain Chicago Business column that he shared on his blog Monday was most interesting. Recently we saw the process run its course in Illinois' state senate as they elected a new presiding officer in state Senator Don Harmon a Democrat from Oak Park, Illinois.

The last state Senate President served over 10 years, this column is about what happens when current state House Speaker Michael Madigan finally leaves the scene. Madigan has been speaker for all but two of the last 36 or so years. Madigan in the years I've been following state politics is a true force.

“A battle unlike anything else” https://t.co/47VEK9fzsf

— Rich Miller (@capitolfax) February 3, 2020

What I can agree is anyone who succeeds Madigan will have a difficult time trying to fill his shoes. During the Blagojevich years it was definitely a good thing to have a man who knows how to use the levers of power and be the main adult in the room. He may have his secrets but certainly someone who wants his power should know to study him.

The column gives me a basic idea even if I'm nowhere near the levers of power. It's a good thing to take care of those in your caucus, that should be the main focus of a leader. I also know that trying to be like Madigan would be a mistake for the next person to try to take over as presiding officer of the Illinois state House of Representatives after decades of one man being a major force in this state.