Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan testified in his corruption trial Wednesday that he was taken aback when then-Ald. Daniel Solis told him over the phone that the developers of a West Loop condo tower understood “the quid pro quo” of hiring Madigan’s law firm.

Several weeks into a federal corruption trial, former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan has taken the stand to testify in his own defense. Facing a 23-count indictment for bribery, racketeering,

CHICAGO — Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan will take the witness stand in his corruption trial — an unexpected revelation that will likely stretch the already lengthy trial into late January.

Madigan's surprise decision to testify could push back the start of jury deliberations until the last week of January.

Madigan, the longest-serving legislative leader in U.S. history, was charged with bribery, racketeering, wire fraud, and other crimes.