For the past 50 years, Illinois has given us some of the most powerful figures in American politics. That list includes two presidents, two Daleys and a slew of governors, senators and other mayors. But none have been as powerful--and controversial--as Speaker Michael J. Madigan.

This five episode limited series podcast is hosted by Justin Kaufmann. A veteran radio host steeped in local government, Kaufmann talks with people who were witness to Madigan’s exercise of power: governors, lawmakers, journalists and politicos. They feared him and revered him, and had no choice but to reckon with his rules.

It’s the Better Government Association’s "The Madigan Rule," a podcast about Illinois’ most powerful politician, featuring those who knew him well.

The podcast title "The Madigan Rule" is inspired by the Chicago Tribune's 2010 investigative series, "The Madigan Rules." John Chase and David Kidwell, principal reporters on the Tribune series, are editors at the Better Government Association.

The Better Government Association is one of the nation’s oldest nonpartisan, nonprofit investigative journalism and civic advocacy organizations. Founded in 1923, the BGA has devoted close to a century to promoting transparency, efficiency, and accountability in government in Chicago and across Illinois.

Today, the BGA continues to provide the public with trustworthy, unbiased information about its government and elected representatives. With three autonomous program areas—Investigations, Policy, and Civic Engagement—our team uncovers waste and wrongdoing in government, holds elected officials accountable, litigates for open records and meetings, advocates for good government, and empowers citizens to engage and act.

For more information about the BGA, please visit http://www.bettergov.org/

Justin Kaufmann has produced and hosted talk shows in Chicago for over 25 years.

Recently, Justin hosted the midday public affairs program "Reset" on WBEZ. Before that, Justin hosted weeknights at WGN Radio. Justin has launched several radio programs and podcasts and has worked with such Chicago luminaries as Studs Terkel, Richard Steele, Ira Glass and Amy Krouse Rosenthal. He currently works as a reporter for Axios Chicago.