Jesse Jackson Jr. is considering a return to Congress. He served in the 2nd Congressional District, South Side of Chicago, and Southern Suburbs for 17 years from 1995 to 2012. Jesse’s first run in Congress was vigorous, as he faced opponents who were all seasoned, sitting elected officials. He was the fresh, young, smiling face. His father, Rev. Jesse Jackson, thought the congressional seat was too ambitious and preferred that he run for Alderman or State Representative. He was young, green, and had his very own political ideas. He won the seat.
He pleaded guilty to misusing campaign funds and was convicted of campaign finance violations. He served a 30-month prison sentence and paid his fine. Having completed his sentence and settled his fines, he is now eligible to run for his former seat. The race is open, with Congressman Robin Kelly running for U.S. Senate.
Jesse was a dedicated congressman. He never missed a floor vote, and he secured nearly $1 billion for his district. He served his constituents effectively. Highlights of his career include advocating for “making the South Side look like the North Side.” His plan included creating a third airport in Peotone, which would act as an economic driver.
Since his time in Congress, the political landscape has changed dramatically. President Donald Trump has introduced a new style of politics with the MAGA party, formerly known as Republicans. The Democratic voice has weakened, lacking strong, visible leadership. Elon Musk enters the scene as he suggests a third political party.
Meanwhile, Zohran Mamdani, a new candidate from New York, used old-fashioned campaigning techniques and won the Democratic mayoral race. He knocked on doors and spoke aggressively about city issues as an unknown candidate. Enter yet another politico.
Jesse is needed in Congress at this time. His experience would benefit citizens of the Second. Former Congressman Bobby Rush says, “Jesse is a proven voice for the forgotten and marginalized. With his experience in social justice and his accomplishments in the halls of Congress, Jesse can fill a vital voice in Washington and the Democratic Party.”
I believe he is poised to be a better Congressman in 2025 than he was in 1995. His life experiences connect with ordinary people. He has gone through incarceration and the challenges of reintegration. He has experienced divorce and raising children to attend college. He has faced the trials of caring for elderly parents. These are significant life matters. He represents middle America — child care, tuition, elderly care. He has traveled widely with his father to observe how national and international politics unfold. Life has not always been a luxury.
The district has changed. It now extends south and includes MAGA country. He recently visited Tilton, Illinois, with friends. It is a small town far to the south in the state. They have never had a governor or congressman visit. The city mostly voted for Trump. Jesse was well received as Mayor Bill Wear gave him a tour of the town. Jesse and some citizens discovered they share some of the same problems. The pipes in Tilden are rusted and haven’t been replaced in a hundred years. This was an issue Jackson addressed for Ford Heights, which was running brown water. During his visit, he met Mayor Wear’s mother, who was celebrating her 83rd birthday. She said he was “a delight” as she invited him into her home. She said, “He’s a Democrat, I’m a Republican, but there was no clash whatsoever. It didn’t make a difference.’ She added, “Our conversation was so pleasant as we talked about politics, local government, and the local economy.’ If Jackson can get this kind of reception in Tilton, what will he experience walking on the far South Side?
The Democrats need Jackson with his valuable political instincts and civil rights insights.
The Second Congressional District needs a new Congressman who is known for fighting for the ordinary person.
I join the choir, Run Jesse Run.
