Michael Madigan trial LIVE updates: Judge denies defense motion to exclude some evidence in former speaker’s case in Illinois

On Thursday, jurors heard several conversations between Mike McClain and Will Cousineau.

Many of the calls between McClain and Cousineau were about finding a job for Kevin Quinn at Cornerstone (Cousineau’s company) after he was fired due to allegations of sexual harassment.

Cousineau hesitated.

They discussed a plan to create a contract for Quinn, not just a piece of paper, that would protect them from the IRS.

There was also talk about Eddie Acevedo’s job search.

They also talked about protecting Madigan and ensuring he maintains his role as speaker.

During one call, McClain said, “We can’t lose our friend (Madigan) and give Illinois to these guys (former Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner).”

Cousineau left the speaker’s office in 2018 and said there were various allegations of sexual harassment from Democratic Party officials and staff at the time, which was a concern for Madigan.

Cousineau said meetings were held about how to respond to the allegations.

During one call, Cousineau told McClain they needed to bring in a public relations firm to handle the allegations.

There was also a call about AT&T.

Cousineau lobbied for the telecommunications company CenturyLink. At that time they wanted to change the law. So he met with McClain.

He asked if there was an AT&T had problems with legislation.

In 2017, the bill was promoted by AT&T. This became law later in 2017.

McClain and Cousineau were also heard on the call saying Rep. Kelly Cassidy should be careful.

McClain tells Cousineau, “Madigan is slowly burning her out. She should be very careful. She could end up far in the outer hemisphere if she doesn’t watch out for it.”