Gov. Quinn Announces Special Election for Jackson Vacancy

Posted on 28. Nov, 2012 by citizen in Local News

Former Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr. stepped down from his post on November 21, 2012 submitting a resignation letter to Speaker of the House John Boehmer. The page and a half document rendered the feel of an apology and shed long awaited light on the former congressman’s feelings about his medical condition and political woes.

“… as my health has deteriorated, my ability to serve the constituents of my district has continued to diminish,” Congressman Jackson wrote. “The constituents of the 2nd District deserve a full-time legislator in Washington, something I cannot be for the foreseeable future,” the letter read.

According to Illinois state law, Gov. Pat Quinn had five days following Jackson’s resignation to schedule the date for a special election to replace the now open congressional seat. And on Monday, Quinn announced that February 26th, 2013 would be the day that citizens in the second congressional district will cast their votes for a special primary election.

According to Illinois state law, a special general election must be held 115 days after a congressional vacancy occurs. However Quinn will be working to amend that law so that the special general election can be held on April 9th, 2013 which is the same day that several other municipalities will hold their elections.

By Larissa M. Tyler