Chorus of Public Officials and Community Leaders Drive Effort to Draft Jesse Jackson Jr. Into 2nd Congressional District Race “Jesse Jackson, Jr. a strong, proven voice, an accomplished legislator, and a passionate  advocate for the marginalized and the forgotten American citizens of the Second Congressional District. His lifelong experiences as a social justice warrior and his multi-variegated  accomplishments as a 17-year-long Member of Congress make Jesse Jackson, Jr. the most  qualified and ready-made of all the candidates who have announced their candidacy for Congress in the Democratic Primary in 2026. 

The Democrats nationally need Jesse’s understanding, his wisdom, and his legislative prowess  to stop the drifting Democratic Party message.” 

U.S. Rep. Bobby L. Rush (retired) 

“As Congresswoman Kelly explores new goals, it underscores the importance of having a 2nd  Congressional District representative with certain key qualities—resilience, intelligence, and the  ability to deliver results. The role requires someone who can stand up for constituents and fight  for their needs. Historically, figures like Jesse Jackson, Jr. exemplified these traits. He was  known for his toughness, dedication, invaluable knowledge, and effectiveness in securing  federal funding for his district.  

In this moment the district needs a fighter—someone who can advocate strongly and deliver for  the people of the 2nd Congressional District.” 

Cook County Commissioner Dr. Kisha McCaskill 

“Jesse Jackson Jr. delivered more than $986,000,000 to the people of the Second  Congressional District over 17 years in Congress and it is well documented. During the  Financial Crisis, Jesse Jackson, Jr. was a voice of reason for how bailouts could shortchange  his constituents and working Americans across the country. He brought balance to those  decisions. What’s happening in D.C. right now with the Big Budget Bill reminds me of those  days.  

Jesse would be a powerful conscience in Congress. I’ve called to encourage him to consider  another run in the 2nd Congressional District.” 

Illinois State Senator James Meeks  – Pastor Emeritus, House of Hope Church

“I’ve called Jesse Jackson, Jr. and asked him to consider a 2nd Congressional District run.  Jesse’s record on civil rights, his persuasive skills, and his ability to work in a bipartisan way to  address the cost of living are sorely needed in Congress right now.  

Jesse knows how to get the job done, especially when the odds are against him.”

Calumet City Mayor Thaddeus M. Jones 

“Democrats need a fighter – and so do the people of the 2nd Congressional District. During his  congressional career, Jesse Jackson, Jr. was tough, smart and effective. He was a proven  fighter who delivered nearly a billion dollars to the district. Today, he will be more impactful as  the politics of America have changed and his progressive voice to counter Trump’s racism will  be loud and clear. His life experiences broaden his understanding of the issues facing many  Americans. The people of the second district will welcome him, and I urge him to run to save  America’s democracy.  

Run, Jesse, run.” 

Hermene Hartman, Publisher, N’DIGO / Ndigo Studio 

“From the replacement of 13 Metro stations in Hyde Park to 93rd St. and the establishment of a  national park, to freshwater in Ford Heights, placing signs down I-57 and the Bishop Ford  Freeway identifying south suburban municipalities, and the more than $986 million in verifiable  grants to the Second Congressional District, Congressman Jackson’s record is ahead of the  pack. 

During this critical period, no one has written a plan to save democracy that competes with  Project 2025 like Congressman Jackson’s work, A More Perfect Union. 

The district and the country need a hands-on congressman. Jesse Jackson Jr. is it.” 

Tami L. Martin  – Chairman of Jesse Jackson Jr. for Congress, 1995-2012

Chorus of Public Officials and Community Leaders Drive Effort to Draft Jesse Jackson Jr. Into 2nd Congressional District Race