By Tiffany Williams –
Former Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. formally launched his comeback bid for Congress on Tuesday, signaling his return to the political arena after more than a decade away. Jackson resigned in 2013 following a conviction for misusing campaign funds, but a recent poll from his exploratory committee suggests he remains a strong contender for the seat.
The seat, covering parts of South Chicago as well as surrounding rural and suburban counties, is opening up as Rep. Robin Kelly (D-Ill.) pursues a U.S. Senate bid. Jackson is entering a crowded Democratic primary that includes state Senators Robert Peters and Willie Preston, Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller, Water Reclamation District Commissioner Yumeka Brown, and policy strategist Adal Regis.
In a campaign video, Jackson alluded to the campaign finance scandal that ended his previous congressional tenure without directly addressing it, quoting a speech from his father, Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., delivered at the 1984 Democratic National Convention.
Observers note that winning the Democratic primary is effectively tantamount to winning the general election in this heavily Democratic district, making this primary the pivotal contest for the seat.