Madigan pleads not-guilty

Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan is pleading not guilty to federal racketeering and bribery charges.  The Chicago Democrat entered the not guilty plea during a telephone court hearing yesterday.  Madigan was indicted last week over allegations he led a criminal enterprise designed to enhance his political power and financial well-being while also generating income for his political allies and associates.  The longest-serving House speaker in U.S. history resigned from the state house last year.