Posted on November 7, 2012

Jesse Jackson Jr. Wins Reelection from Mayo Clinic

Andrew Greiner, NBC Chicago, November 7, 2012

Jesse Jackson Jr. won re-election to Illinois’ 2nd Congressional district by a landslide Tuesday night, beating his two opponents, Marcus Lewis and Brian Woodwoorth.

As of 2 a.m. Wednesday, and with 99 percent of precincts reporting, Jackson had captured 63 percent of the vote.

“My deep and sincere thanks to the people of the 2nd Congressional District, I am humbled and moved by the support shown today,” Jackson said in a written statement. “Everyday, I think about your needs and concerns. Once the Doctors approve my return to work, I will continue to be the progressive fighter you have known for years. My family and I are grateful for your many heartfelt prayers and kind thoughts. I continue to feel better everyday and look forward to serving you.”

Jackson is not celebrating his victory in a swanky Chicago hotel room, or back stage at McCormick place with President Barack Obama watching the returns come in on the national race. He’s reportedly spending the night at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota.

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Jackson Jr. likewise suddenly disappeared from the public before the primary, in early June when he left for a treatment center in Arizona. He later moved on to Mayo where he was diagnosed with bipolar depression and gastrointestinal issues.

Between June and November, nary a constituent saw their Congressman — not working, not campaigning, not fundraising — because he avoided press and voter alike. Jackson, the junior, won.

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In October, Federal prosecutors and FBI agents in Washington launched a criminal investigation of Jackson, Jr. involving financial improprieties, including possible misuse of funds monitored by Congress to decorate his Washington D.C. Home.

At the same time, a House Ethics Committee continues to look into Jackson’s supposed involvement in trying to be appointed to now-President Barack Obama’s seat in the U.S. Senate. {snip}

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