The ongoing federal bribery trial of Paul La Schiazza, the former president of AT&T Illinois, revealed the underbelly of political favors and alleged bribery within Illinois' halls of power. According to testimony in the case, reported by the Chicago Tribune, AT&T is accused of making contentious payments to ex-state Rep. Eddie Acevedo, aiming to curry favor with House Speaker Michael Madigan. Tom Cullen, a retired lobbyist and Madigan aide, has been a focal point of the trial as his connection to the case is significant—both as an alleged intermediary and due to his deep-seated knowledge of the speaker's political machine.
In an evident bid to maintain his reputation and career, Cullen has agreed to testify in exchange for a "nontarget letter," ensuring that no substantial proof exists implicating him in wrongdoing. His testimony, which continued into cross-examination on September 16th, recounted a 2017 meeting where Acevedo, dissatisfied with a $2,500-a-month offer from AT&T—which required little to no work—demanded more, reportedly citing, "F— AT&T, they can kiss my ass," according to Cullen's statement obtained by the Chicago Tribune.
Meanwhile, WTTW News reported that Steve Selcke, a retired AT&T lobbyist speaking under immunity, witnessed Acevedo's fiery response to the offer during the meeting. Acevedo, who eventually accepted monthly checks totaling $22,500, was supposedly tasked with drafting a report on the Latino Caucuses' political dynamics—a task that federal prosecutors allege was a facade for a "do-nothing" contract.
Defense attorneys propose an alternative narrative, suggesting that La Schiazza and AT&T simply engaged in routine lobbying efforts, unconnected to any illegal activities. As the trial progressed, a broader strategy by AT&T unfolded—to push legislation allowing the company to move away from maintaining their landline system and instead to invest more robustly in cellular and internet services. Cullen's testimony further brought to light the contentious nature of Acevedo’s employment, with AT&T concealing the payments via a pre-existing contract with Cullen's lobbying firm. "That he was a loyal member but not, you know, a serious member," Cullen reflected on Madigan's purported view of Acevedo, as told to WTTW News.
The trial is expected to continue to shed light on the intricate relationship between lobbyists and lawmakers, with Cullen's ongoing testimony and cross-examination poised to play a critical role in shaping the outcomes for both La Schiazza and the implicated Illinois political leaders. According to the Chicago Tribune, the federal government's case against the former AT&T Illinois boss could conclude as soon as Wednesday.
