LIG McCuskey is out (Updated x4)
Tuesday, Sep 8, 2026 - Posted by Isabel Miller
* Background is here if you need it. Press release…
Upon receiving notification of an upcoming vacancy of the position of Legislative Inspector General, received on August 31, 2026, the Legislative Ethics Commission has commenced the process for filling that vacancy pursuant to its statutory obligations. Rep. Jeff Keicher, Chair of the Legislative Ethics Commission, and all members of the Commission want to assure the public of the Commission’s commitment to filling the position in a timely manner. The Commission considers the Legislative Inspector General to be a vital position that should be filled as expeditiously as possible to ensure the integrity of the Office and to preserve the citizens’ trust in the functions and operations of the legislative branch of government for which the LIG has jurisdiction.
Per 5 ILCS 430/25-10(b-5), the Commission will be posting the LIG vacancy notice on its website on September 8, 2026. Additionally, the position will be posted on Indeed.com and the Legal Job Board Network, which includes the Chicago Bar Association, the Illinois State Bar Association, and over 80 additional bar associations and career centers. The application deadline is October 31, 2026, but is subject to an extension if needed.
The vacancy notice is available for viewing or download at https://www.ilga.gov/documents/Commission/LEC/LIG_Vacancy.pdf
…Adding… It’s not clear whether McCuskey resigned or was removed. Asked which it was, Legislative Ethics Commission Chair Rep. Jeff Keicher said, “The statement of the LEC is all that we are saying at this time.”
…Adding… Capitol News Illinois’ Brenden Moore…
…Adding… House Minority Leader Tony McCombie…
“This is an opportunity to strengthen the office of the LIG, to fix the culture of harassment apparent within the House majority, and update Illinois’ ethics laws.
“As the internal watchdog of the legislative branch, the LIG must have the tools and authority to be effective. The legislature should move quickly to strengthen anti-corruption safeguards and increase the jurisdiction and authority of the office of the LIG. House Republicans have legislation ready that should be taken up during the veto session.
“Additionally, there must be a thorough search and transparent vetting process for the next inspector general, as outlined in state law.”
…Adding… Rep. Mary Beth Canty…
State Rep. Mary Beth Canty (D-Arlington Heights), chair of the Illinois House Democratic Women’s Caucus, released the following statement responding to the news that Legislative Inspector General Michael McCuskey has resigned:
“LIG McCuskey’s resignation is significant, but it does not end the culture of harassment that has persisted in Springfield for far too long. We must strengthen the laws that guard against harassment, build a process that survivors can trust, and show the leadership required to earn the public’s confidence. The work is not finished.”